Fan Xiao

Fan Xiao provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Acupuncture and tailored herbal formulas to regulate bowel movements by addressing the specific TCM pattern causing chronic constipation (e.g., Qi stagnation, Blood deficiency, Yin deficiency with dryness, Heat accumulation) or persistent diarrhea (e.g., Spleen Qi deficiency, Kidney Yang deficiency, Damp-Heat in the intestines).
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Reducing symptoms of GERD and dyspepsia by harmonizing the middle jiao (digestive center) and addressing underlying imbalances without relying on long-term acid suppression.

Other Common

• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Natural relief from sensations of spinning, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness by addressing the root energetic imbalance.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and gentle herbal therapies to help manage common side effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain, neuropathy, dry mouth, insomnia, and anxiety, thereby improving quality of life and treatment tolerance. (Always in coordination with primary oncology care).

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. TCM diagnosis is based on individual patterns, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Fan can assess your needs.

• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Application of glass, bamboo, or silicone cups to the skin to create suction (often via heat/fire for glass cups, or a pump for others). This technique helps to relieve muscle tension, improve blood and Qi flow, reduce local inflammation, release toxins, open pores, and treat respiratory conditions or musculoskeletal pain.
• Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Stimulation of specific reflex points on the ear (auricle) using fine needles, small seeds (e.g., vaccaria seeds), or beads affixed with tape to treat various health conditions throughout the body, based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Targeting key energy points on the body with precise pressure to alleviate symptoms, support organ function, and enhance overall well-being.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): A therapeutic technique involving the gentle but firm scraping of lubricated skin with a smooth-edged tool (e.g., jade, horn, ceramic spoon) to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which releases muscle tension, breaks down adhesions and scar tissue, reduces pain and inflammation, and promotes healing and detoxification by releasing 'Sha' (stagnant blood and metabolic waste).
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): A contemporary acupuncture technique involving the insertion of needles into specific therapeutic zones on the scalp that correspond to different body functions and brain areas (e.g., motor, sensory, balance zones), primarily used for neurological disorders, stroke rehabilitation, chronic pain, and psycho-emotional conditions.
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): Gentle and penetrating heat therapy with mugwort to strengthen the body's vital energy, improve circulation, turn breech babies (when applied to a specific point), and relieve chronic pain or fatigue.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Fan, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered Acupuncturists in ON and the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

At ICARE ACUPUNCTURE & MASSAGE, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Fan frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Acupuncture and TCM with Fan can be a turning point for those affected by managing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments more comfortably. The goal is achieving achieving more regular, comfortable, and predictable bowel movements, paving the way for you to enjoy playing a few sets of tennis without shoulder or elbow pain and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care and achieved an enhanced overall quality of life and a greater capacity to enjoy daily activities and social engagements under the care of Fan, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as participating in activities like yoga or meditation with greater ease, comfort, and deeper relaxation with renewed vitality and ease.
• It's rewarding for Fan to witness patients find relief from looking for a holistic approach to managing a chronic health condition or autoimmune issue and experience reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation) through TCM. A tailored approach can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in enjoying seasonal changes with fewer allergy flare-ups and more outdoor time again.
• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms), Fan helps patients work towards significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels, facilitating a return to cherished activities like feeling more physically resilient and less prone to minor ailments or weather changes.

Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Fan, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.

Fan practices at ICARE ACUPUNCTURE & MASSAGE, situated in the Forest Heights area within the Forest Hill neighbourhood of Kitchener. The clinic is conveniently located near St. Mary's General Hospital and is easily accessible via public transportation, including Grand River Transit (GRT) buses and the ION Light Rail. Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing and well-being, with metered and paid parking lots typically available nearby.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is strongly advised to check with individual private or extended health insurance plans, as many do offer some level of coverage for services provided by registered practitioners. Coverage varies significantly depending on the plan.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, this stimulates and balances the flow of Qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. It can help reduce pain, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions such as digestion and hormones, boost the immune system, and promote overall well-being by encouraging the body’s natural healing processes.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In TCM, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is considered the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body. It is responsible for physiological processes, movement, warmth, and protection against illness. Meridians are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with external parts like muscles and skin. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and are used to influence the flow of Qi to restore balance and health.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered Acupuncturist in ON?

In Ontario, patients can typically consult a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to verify your insurance policy details prior to your appointment.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered Acupuncturist help?

TCM is a holistic approach to health based on ancient Chinese principles. A Registered Acupuncturist assesses your overall health, often using tongue and pulse diagnosis, to identify patterns of imbalance. Treatments may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle advice, all aimed at restoring balance and promoting healing within the body.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be comfortable and non-painful. The needles are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation during insertion. Some may experience a brief pinch or a feeling of warmth, tingling, or heaviness, which indicates effective stimulation of Qi. Practitioners are trained to use sterile, single-use needles to ensure safety and prevent infection. If any discomfort occurs, patients are encouraged to inform their practitioner immediately.

ICARE ACUPUNCTURE & MASSAGE
1414 Queen's blvd
Kitchener, ON, N2M 1E1

Phone: (519) 279-0126

Fan Xiao is regulated by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, 2006 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Verify registration with The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario: https://www.ctcmpao.on.ca/member-profile/?contactid=01d8eb41-b376-e611-80c3-005056a97495

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are holistic therapies. It is recommended to also consult with your medical doctor for diagnosis of serious conditions and for emergency medical care. TCM can often complement conventional treatments effectively.