Gwendolyn Lorelle Ahlgren

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

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: TCM strategies to identify and manage dietary and emotional triggers for digestive distress, improve nutrient absorption, and restore comfortable and regular bowel function.
• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Restoring balance to the large and small intestines and related organ systems (like Spleen, Liver, Kidney) to promote normal stool consistency, frequency, and ease of passage.
• 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.
• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Acupuncture (especially point Pericardium-6) and gentle herbal remedies to effectively reduce nausea and vomiting associated with various causes, including morning sickness during pregnancy, side effects of chemotherapy or medications, or motion sickness.

Respiratory Allergy & Immune

• Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Using specific acupuncture points and potent herbal formulas tailored to the stage and nature of the cold or flu (e.g., clearing Wind-Cold versus Wind-Heat invasions) to shorten duration and lessen severity.
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Acupuncture and herbal medicine as a supportive and complementary approach to manage asthma and chronic bronchitis symptoms by strengthening Lung Qi and Wei Qi, resolving phlegm and dampness, descending rebellious Lung Qi to calm wheezing and cough, and tonifying Kidney Qi to grasp the Lung Qi.
• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and TCM dietary advice to reduce allergic reactions and sensitivities, alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, and sinus pain, and strengthen the body's defensive Qi (Wei Qi) to make it less reactive to allergens.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: Building resilience against pathogens by fortifying the Zang-Fu organs responsible for immune function, particularly the Lungs, Spleen, and Kidneys according to TCM theory.

Pain & Musculoskeletal

• Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Effective TCM management strategies for shooting, burning, or electric-shock like pain that follows nerve pathways, aiming to improve sensation and function.
• Arthritis & Joint Pain (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis - Supportive Care): TCM approaches, including acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medicine, to reduce joint inflammation, alleviate pain, decrease stiffness, and improve function in individuals with various forms of arthritis.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Acupuncture and local soft tissue techniques to alleviate jaw pain, clicking, locking, and muscle tension associated with TMJ disorders by relaxing masticatory muscles, reducing inflammation, and improving local Qi and Blood flow.
• Headaches & Migraines (Tension, Cluster, Hormonal - TCM Management): Identifying specific TCM patterns contributing to head pain (e.g., temporal, occipital, vertex headaches) and providing personalized treatments, including acupuncture and herbal formulas, for lasting relief and prevention.

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. Gwendolyn can assess your needs.

• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Assessing up to 28 distinct pulse qualities to contribute to a comprehensive TCM diagnosis, guiding the selection of appropriate acupuncture points and herbal formulas.
• 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.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Expert formulation of potent Chinese herbal remedies based on classical TCM principles and modern research, designed to treat specific ailments, strengthen the body, and support long-term constitutional health.
• 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.
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Using established and time-tested patent herbal remedies (Cheng Yao) that have been trusted for generations to address specific symptoms or support overall health and organ system balance.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: In-depth analysis of various tongue characteristics to help formulate an accurate TCM pattern diagnosis and a highly individualized treatment plan.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Supporting patients in their herbal medicine journey with clear instructions, quality-sourced herbs, and ongoing monitoring of their response to treatment.

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

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

At BURLINGTON CENTRE FOR OSTEOPAT, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Gwendolyn frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• If fertility challenges, trying to conceive, or wanting to prepare my body for pregnancy is preventing you from fully enjoying easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips without strain, Gwendolyn offers skilled acupuncture and TCM care. Treatment focuses on enjoying consistently more restful, deeper, and restorative sleep patterns, waking up refreshed, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies (if R.TCMP), and lifestyle advice to help you regain balance and function.
• Patients struggling with trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling tired and unrefreshed can find dedicated support from Gwendolyn. The therapeutic focus is on achieving effective alleviation of some common side effects associated with conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy, using a range of TCM modalities to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as keeping up with their team during our weekly soccer match without pain limiting them.
• When high blood pressure needing complementary support for management is limiting your lifestyle, acupuncture and TCM with Gwendolyn can help you work towards reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, aiming to restore harmony and optimal function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy resuming their weightlifting routine at the gym safely.
• For those whose that nagging back pain that just won't go away has made engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus seem difficult, Gwendolyn's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward improved mental focus, concentration, and cognitive clarity as overall health and energy improve. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours with clear focus with greater comfort.

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

Gwendolyn practices at BURLINGTON CENTRE FOR OSTEOPAT, situated in the Maple, Dynes neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor and is easily accessible via Burlington Transit. Our clinic offers a serene environment designed for healing, with accessible facilities and typically available parking options for patients.

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

In Ontario, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner, such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner, directly without a physician's referral (direct access). While a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy to understand their requirements.

What should I expect during my first Acupuncture or TCM appointment?

During your first visit, Gwendolyn will conduct a detailed consultation to understand your health concerns from a TCM perspective. This includes asking about your symptoms, overall health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. Traditional diagnostic methods such as examining your tongue and palpating your pulse will be performed. She will then discuss her findings and propose a treatment plan, which often includes acupuncture, herbal recommendations, dietary advice, or other TCM therapies tailored to your needs.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that animates the body and sustains health. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, balance and well-being are maintained. **Meridians** are channels or pathways that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages, deficiencies, or excess in these meridians can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture and TCM therapies aim to restore the proper flow of Qi within these meridians.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) or Doctor of TCM (Dr.TCM), Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to select high-quality herbs, recognize potential herb-drug interactions, and identify contraindications. It is important to inform your practitioner of all medications and health conditions. Self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to risks of incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints to stimulate the flow of Qi along meridians. It can help reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, and promote overall wellness by supporting the body's natural healing processes.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people experience little to no discomfort during acupuncture. The needles are very thin, and sensations such as a slight pinch or a dull ache are common but typically tolerable. Practitioners are trained in safe needling techniques, using sterile, single-use needles to prevent infection. If any pain occurs during treatment, patients should inform their practitioner immediately.

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

TCM is a comprehensive medical system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle advice. A registered TCM Practitioner diagnoses and treats imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang to promote harmony and health, addressing both symptoms and root causes of illness.

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

In Ontario, acupuncture and TCM services provided by registered practitioners are generally NOT covered by OHIP. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, although many private or extended health insurance plans do offer coverage. It is recommended to verify your insurance policy for specific coverage details.

BURLINGTON CENTRE FOR OSTEOPAT
2050 Mount Forest Dr.
Burlington, ON, L7P 1H5

Phone: (289) 937-0555

Gwendolyn Lorelle Ahlgren 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=3f78c309-b976-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.