Hongjie Du

Hongjie's practice is located at Curing Hands RMT, situated within a central Thornhill neighborhood. The clinic is easily accessible and conveniently positioned near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to visit. It is well-served by local public transit routes, providing accessible options for those using public transportation. Our clinic offers a serene environment conducive to healing, and metered and paid parking lots are usually available nearby, ensuring ease of access for all patients.

• 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.
• 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).
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): A comprehensive form of Chinese therapeutic massage and bodywork that utilizes a wide range of hand techniques (e.g., pushing, grasping, rolling, pressing, kneading) to manipulate soft tissues and joints, stimulate acupressure points, and promote the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood through the meridians, thereby relieving pain, correcting musculoskeletal imbalances, and treating various internal medicine conditions. (Typically offered by R.TCMP or specifically trained R.Ac).
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: A detailed initial consultation involving an in-depth discussion of your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, emotional state, and a traditional TCM diagnostic assessment (palpation, observation, listening/smelling, pulse, and tongue diagnosis) to identify your unique TCM pattern of disharmony.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: A holistic diagnostic approach incorporating visual assessment and physical touch to complement tongue and pulse diagnosis for a complete TCM picture.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Application of firm but gentle pressure to specific acupoints along the body's meridians using fingers, thumbs, or elbows to stimulate Qi flow, relieve pain, reduce tension, and promote relaxation and balance, similar to acupuncture but without needles.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: A key TCM diagnostic method where the tongue is meticulously examined as a microsystem map reflecting your body's internal health and specific imbalances.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Hongjie, 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 Curing Hands RMT, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Hongjie frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many find that TCM with Hongjie not only helps with symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery but also brings about for children, experiencing fewer common ailments and demonstrating improved overall health and development, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in participating in activities like yoga or meditation with greater ease, comfort, and deeper relaxation.
• Experiencing frequent colds, feeling like my immune system is weak, or taking a long time to recover from illness can be draining. Hongjie utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, so patients can re-engage with managing daily stress with a greater sense of calm, focus, and emotional resilience feeling revitalized.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Hongjie can be a turning point for those affected by my child having frequent illnesses, digestive issues, or skin problems. The goal is achieving a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, paving the way for you to enjoy actively participating in family outings and vacations without holding others back and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of general feeling of being 'off' or 'out of balance' energetically? Hongjie works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume playing with children or grandchildren more comfortably and with sustained energy.

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

Hongjie's practice is located at Curing Hands RMT, situated within a central Thornhill neighborhood. The clinic is easily accessible and conveniently positioned near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to visit. It is well-served by local public transit routes, providing accessible options for those using public transportation. Our clinic offers a serene environment conducive to healing, and metered and paid parking lots are usually available nearby, ensuring ease of access for all patients.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic approach to health and wellness based on ancient principles. A Registered Acupuncturist will assess your overall state of health, looking for patterns of imbalance according to TCM theory (often involving tongue and pulse diagnosis). Treatment may involve acupuncture, customized herbal formulas (if an R.TCMP), cupping, moxibustion, and specific dietary and lifestyle recommendations to help restore your body's natural balance and promote healing.

Is there anything I should do to prepare for or after an acupuncture session?

Before your acupuncture session, it's good to have a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours prior; avoid coming on an empty stomach or immediately after a heavy meal. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms, legs, and abdomen. Avoid caffeine or alcohol just before treatment. After your session, it's best to avoid strenuous activity for a few hours and drink plenty of water. Some people feel very relaxed or even a bit tired, while others feel energized. Pay attention to any changes in your symptoms or well-being and report them to your Registered Acupuncturist at your next visit.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist, is a therapeutic technique where thin needles are inserted at specific points on your body. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to restore balance to your body's energy flow. It can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including pain management (like back pain or headaches), stress reduction, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and much more, by helping to activate your body's own healing mechanisms.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, while a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans do require one for reimbursement. Patients are advised to check their individual insurance policies to confirm coverage details.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

For most people, acupuncture is not painful. The needles used are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation upon insertion. Some common sensations include a slight initial pinch, followed by a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness around the needle site, which usually indicates the treatment is working effectively to stimulate your body's Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed and even falling asleep during the session. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and exclusively use sterile, single-use needles to ensure your safety and prevent infection. If you ever feel any notable pain, inform your Registered Acupuncturist immediately.

Does Curing Hands RMT offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Yes, Curing Hands RMT typically offers direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists and Registered TCM Practitioners to major private insurance providers. Patients should bring their insurance details and confirm specific coverage, such as per-visit limits, annual maximums, or whether a referral is needed. The patient remains responsible for any non-covered portions.

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

No, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner in a private clinic are generally not covered by OHIP. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, but many private and extended health plans offer coverage for these services. Patients are advised to verify their individual insurance policies for details.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often described as vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body, responsible for movement, warmth, and immune defense. Meridians are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the body's exterior, including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and are used to influence Qi flow, helping to restore balance and promote health.

Curing Hands RMT
62 Meadowview Ave
Thornhill, ON, L3T 1K7

Phone: (416) 546-8908

Hongjie Du 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=a57d3410-c676-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.