Jean-François Vigneault – Acupuncturist | Shawinigan, QC

Jean-François Vigneault is a dedicated Acupuncteur (Ac.). Practicing at Jean-François Vigneault Ac. in Shawinigan, QC, he is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec. Jean-François's practice emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating classical TCM principles with modern clinical experience to support each patient's unique health journey.

Jean-François's role involves offering skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (such as musculoskeletal pain and headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and overall wellness support. His care aims to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. He serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring tailored approaches that respect individual needs and life stages.

Jean-François completed his training in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, gaining extensive clinical experience along the way. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development to uphold the highest standards of practice. His particular interests include acupuncture techniques and other modalities within TCM. He offers consultations in French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for his diverse clientele.

Jean-François Vigneault 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): Effective TCM approaches for achieving long-term resolution of chronic and bothersome bowel irregularities and improving gut motility.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Bloating, Gas & Functional Digestive Upset: Holistic approach to calming an irritable gut and improving overall digestive health and comfort using personalized TCM treatments.
• 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.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Addressing underlying energetic imbalances like Liver Qi Stagnation, Spleen Qi Deficiency, and Blood Stasis, and improving overall vitality in individuals with these chronic pain conditions.
• 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.

Other Common

• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Natural relief from sensations of spinning, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness by addressing the root energetic imbalance.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and tonifying herbal therapies to address the profound exhaustion and complex symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by strengthening Spleen Qi, nourishing Kidney Essence (Yin and Yang), resolving Dampness, and calming the Shen.
• 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. Jean-François can assess your needs.

• 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).
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): A subtle and sophisticated TCM diagnostic technique requiring extensive training, used to understand the energetic state of your Zang-Fu organs and overall constitution.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: An extensive assessment exploring your main health concerns through the holistic lens of TCM, including detailed questioning, tongue and pulse diagnosis, and observation of physical signs to determine the root cause of disharmony and guide treatment.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: Detailed observation of the tongue's color, shape, size, coating, cracks, and moisture to gain crucial insights into the state of your internal organs, fluid balance, and overall energetic balance.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Jean-François, 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 QC and the standards set by The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

At Jean-François Vigneault Ac., Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Jean-François frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• For those whose my child having frequent illnesses, digestive issues, or skin problems has made getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up seem difficult, Jean-François's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward feeling empowered with practical self-care techniques, such as acupressure, moxibustion for home use, or specific TCM dietary advice. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up with greater comfort.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Jean-François can be a turning point for those affected by chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections. The goal is experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes, paving the way for you to enjoy enjoying seasonal changes with fewer allergy flare-ups and more outdoor time and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Many find that TCM with Jean-François not only helps with wanting to improve my overall energy, focus, and vitality naturally but also brings about clearer breathing, reduced sinus congestion, and improved respiratory function, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in reducing reliance on pain, sleep, or anxiety medications (always under medical guidance).
• Many individuals seek the expertise of Jean-François, their Acupuncturist/TCM Practitioner, when general muscle tension, stiffness, and aches throughout my body impacts their daily life. Through personalized TCM treatments, they often achieve a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain.

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

Jean-François practices at 'Jean-François Vigneault Ac.', situated within an accessible acupuncture and TCM clinic located in the heart of Shawinigan. The clinic is conveniently positioned in the central neighborhood, close to local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to visit. It is well-connected via local public transit routes, ensuring accessibility for those relying on public transportation. Our clinic offers a serene environment designed to support healing and relaxation. Street parking is often available nearby, providing additional convenience for visitors.

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.

Does Jean-François Vigneault Ac. offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Typically, the clinic offers direct billing to major private insurance companies for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) and/or Registered TCM Practitioners (R.TCMP). Patients are advised to bring their insurance details and confirm specific coverage, including per-visit limits, annual maximums, and whether referrals are necessary. While many insurance plans cover these services, patients are responsible for any non-covered portions. It is recommended to verify your individual policy with your insurer prior to your appointment.

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

In Quebec, patients can generally 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 strongly recommended to check your insurance policy details to understand any specific requirements before booking your session.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints along meridians to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi (vital energy). This practice can help reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, and promote overall well-being by harnessing the body's natural healing abilities.

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

These are adjunct therapies used in TCM. Cupping involves creating suction on the skin to relieve muscle tension and promote circulation. Moxibustion involves burning mugwort near or on acupuncture points to warm and invigorate Qi. Gua Sha uses a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin, improving circulation and reducing pain. Tui Na is a therapeutic massage technique that manipulates soft tissues and acupressure points to relieve pain and restore balance. Your practitioner will determine which modalities are appropriate for your condition.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use. Most patients describe the sensation as a very mild prick or a tingling feeling, often relaxing. Once needles are inserted, some may experience sensations like warmth, heaviness, or energy movement, which indicate effective Qi stimulation. Safety standards are strictly followed, and practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience discomfort.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?

Services provided by Registered Acupuncturists or TCM Practitioners in private clinics are generally not covered by RAMQ. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. However, many private insurance plans offer varying levels of coverage for these services. It is advisable to check with your insurer to confirm your specific benefits and reimbursement options.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

Qi is considered the vital energy or life force that flows through the body, supporting all physiological functions. Meridians are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the body's surface and extremities. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and serve as access points to influence and restore the flow of Qi, promoting health and balance.

Jean-François Vigneault Ac.
695, av. de la Station, bureau 201
Shawinigan, QC, G9N 6T9

Phone: (819) 244-4729

Jean-François Vigneault is regulated by the Professional Code (Quebec) in QC and is a registered member of The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Registration Number: A-036-03

Registration can typically be verified with The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

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.