Huahong He – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | North York, ON

Huahong He is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at Osteotuina in North York, ON, he is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Huahong's role as a TCM practitioner involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and general wellness support. His care is focused on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. Huahong serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and constitution.

Huahong completed his R. TCMP, R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2023). With over 1 year of dedicated practice since 2023, he is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. He has a particular interest or further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. His practice philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach, viewing the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable (Holism); utilizing time-tested therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine to support the body's innate healing capacity and restore natural balance (Yin-Yang Harmony); and emphasizing preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs) to empower individuals in maintaining their well-being. Huahong offers consultations in English and Mandarin.

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

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Natural and effective relief for jaw discomfort, helping to restore normal jaw function and reduce parafunctional habits like clenching or grinding.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Holistic TCM approaches, including acupuncture, gentle cupping, moxibustion, and carefully selected herbal support, to manage the complex symptoms of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, such as widespread pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and 'fibro fog'.
• Neuropathic Pain & Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy Support, Post-Herpetic Neuralgia): Addressing neuropathic pain by invigorating Qi and Blood flow along affected meridians, nourishing Yin and Blood to repair damaged nerves, and resolving blockages or stagnation.

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Identifying specific TCM patterns contributing to poor sleep (e.g., difficulty falling asleep versus waking frequently) and providing personalized treatments to re-establish healthy sleep-wake cycles.
• Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Acupuncture, acupressure, and TCM herbal therapies to calm the Shen (spirit/mind), regulate the flow of Qi (especially Liver Qi), nourish Heart Blood and Yin, and reduce the physiological and psychological effects of acute and chronic stress, anxiety, and panic attacks.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Supportive TCM care to help restore a sense of safety, peace, and emotional resilience for those affected by trauma.

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. Huahong can assess your needs.

• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Recommending specific Qigong or Tai Chi forms tailored to an individual's health needs and constitution to support healing and maintain well-being.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): Dynamic, hands-on bodywork based on TCM principles of meridians and acupoints to correct structural misalignments, improve circulation, alleviate chronic pain, and restore energetic harmony and balance.
• TCM Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching (Yang Sheng): Practical strategies for living in harmony with nature, managing daily stressors effectively, conserving vital energy (Qi), and cultivating healthy habits from a TCM perspective to support overall resilience and a vibrant life.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Utilizing cupping techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain (back, shoulder, neck), clear stagnation, support detoxification, and relieve symptoms of common colds or asthma.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Instrument-assisted unidirectional press-stroking of the skin to break up stagnation, improve local circulation, alleviate pain, stiffness, and fever, and promote lymphatic drainage.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: A non-invasive TCM technique that uses manual pressure on acupoints to address various health concerns, often taught for self-care or used as part of a broader TCM treatment.
• TCM Dietary Therapy & Nutritional Counseling (Shi Liao): Personalized dietary advice based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles (Shi Liao), considering the energetic properties of foods (e.g., warming/cooling, drying/moistening, Five Flavors) and their effects on specific organ systems to support your unique constitution, address health imbalances, and promote healing.

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

• Many patients have found lasting relief from heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals and achieved improved mental focus, concentration, and cognitive clarity as overall health and energy improve under the care of Huahong, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as enjoying intimacy without pain or hormonal imbalances interfering with renewed vitality and ease.
• Huahong frequently assists patients in overcoming digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) using TCM principles. A carefully designed treatment plan, targeting clearer breathing, reduced sinus congestion, and improved respiratory function, supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like maintaining a positive mood and outlook more consistently, leading to better social interactions.
• Understanding that knee, hip, or other joint pain making movement difficult can be frustrating, Huahong applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve a holistic sense of feeling more 'in balance' and harmonized physically, mentally, and energetically, making it possible to rediscover the joy in getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• If symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery is affecting your ability to participate in cooking and eating a wider variety of healthy foods comfortably and with enjoyment, Huahong's TCM approach aims for reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, helping you to regain your stride.

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

Huahong practices at Osteotuina, situated in a central North York neighborhood of North York. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access. It is well-served by local public transit routes, providing convenient options for those using public transportation. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic approach to health and wellness based on ancient principles. A Registered TCM Practitioner 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.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often not much thicker than a human hair, so their insertion is usually painless or feels like a tiny prick, much less intense than an injection. Once the needles are in place, you might feel a unique sensation such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, a slight feeling of pressure or heaviness, or even a sensation of energy moving; these are generally considered positive signs that the Qi is being influenced and the treatment is taking effect. Most people find acupuncture to be a very relaxing and calming experience. Safety is paramount; registered practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles. Always communicate with your Registered TCM Practitioner if you experience any significant discomfort during treatment.

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). Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans do offer coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners, so patients are encouraged to check their individual policies as coverage levels vary.

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), who has extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify herb quality, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications for specific health conditions or during pregnancy. It is important to inform your practitioner of all medications and health conditions. Avoid self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources to prevent risks such as incorrect diagnosis, improper formulation, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered TCM Practitioner, involves inserting thin needles at specific points on the body to restore balance to the body's energy flow. It can help manage pain, reduce stress, improve digestion, and address various health issues by activating the body's natural healing mechanisms.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In TCM, **Qi** (pronounced 'chee') is the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body, responsible for physiological functions, movement, warmth, and immune defense. **Meridians** are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the body's exterior. Acupuncture points along these meridians are accessed to influence Qi flow and restore balance.

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

Patients in Ontario can generally consult a Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy for specific requirements.

What are Cupping, Moxibustion, Gua Sha, and Tui Na?

These are common adjunctive therapies used in TCM. Cupping involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, helping to relieve muscle tension and promote blood flow. Moxibustion involves burning mugwort near or on acupuncture points to warm the body's energy. Gua Sha uses a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin, improving circulation and reducing pain. Tui Na is Chinese therapeutic massage that manipulates muscles and meridians to relieve pain and restore harmony. Your practitioner will determine if these therapies are appropriate for your condition.

Osteotuina
4789 Yonge St.
North York, ON, M2N 0C3

Phone: (416) 858-5888

Huahong He 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=7f5130ed-2203-ed11-811b-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.