Julie Lussier

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

Other Common

• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Integrative TCM care focused on alleviating treatment-related discomfort, enhancing immune function, and supporting the patient's overall well-being throughout their cancer journey.
• Support for Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's, Lupus, MS - Adjunctive Care): A holistic and integrative TCM approach to help modulate the immune response, alleviate autoimmune-related fatigue and pain, and support the body's innate healing capacities.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Natural and comprehensive solutions for combating persistent, debilitating tiredness, improving energy production, and enhancing overall resilience and quality of life.

Digestive & Gastrointestinal

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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. Julie can assess your needs.

• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): Skilled palpation of the radial artery pulse at three positions and three depths on each wrist to assess the quality, strength, rhythm, and rate, reflecting the health and balance of Qi and Blood in the twelve major organ systems.
• 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: Careful observation of your complexion, eyes, hair, nails, posture, and demeanor, combined with palpation of specific body areas or meridians to detect tenderness, temperature changes, or energetic blockages.
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): Specialized scalp needling techniques drawing from both traditional TCM and modern neurology to modulate brain activity and address challenging neurological and pain-related health issues.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Ear acupuncture or acupressure (using seeds for prolonged stimulation) to address issues like pain, addiction (e.g., smoking cessation, NADA protocol), stress, anxiety, and internal disorders by targeting corresponding reflex points on the ear.
• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): Insertion of fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific acupoints on the body's meridians (energy pathways) to stimulate Qi (vital energy) flow, alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, regulate organ function, and promote natural healing.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Precise needling of tight muscle bands and trigger points to reduce pain, improve local circulation, and restore normal muscle tone and movement patterns.

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

• If knee, hip, or other joint pain making movement difficult is affecting your ability to participate in spending hours gardening comfortably, without subsequent back or knee strain, Julie's TCM approach aims for accelerated recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strains, and a quicker, safer return to activity, helping you to regain your stride.
• Let Julie help you navigate pain, numbness, or tingling running down my leg (like sciatica) with targeted TCM care. The goal is enjoying consistently more restful, deeper, and restorative sleep patterns, waking up refreshed, so you can fully enjoy doing household chores like vacuuming, mopping, or laundry without pain and other life pleasures once more.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Julie can be a turning point for those affected by frequent colds, feeling like my immune system is weak, or taking a long time to recover from illness. The goal is achieving a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, 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.
• If TMJ, jaw pain, or teeth grinding that causes discomfort and headaches is preventing you from fully enjoying intimacy without pain or hormonal imbalances interfering, Julie offers skilled acupuncture and TCM care. Treatment focuses on improved mobility, flexibility, and range of motion in previously stiff or painful joints and muscles, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies (if R.TCMP), and lifestyle advice to help you regain balance and function.

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

Julie practices at Clinique de physiothérapie Robert Daigneault, situated in the heart of Saint-Hyacinthe's central neighborhood within an acupuncture and TCM clinic. The location is conveniently near local community centers and public parks, making it easy for patients to access a peaceful environment for healing. Public transit routes serve the area well, providing accessible transportation options. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Street parking is often available nearby.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to TCM theory, this helps to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. Acupuncture can help by reducing pain, alleviating stress and anxiety, improving sleep, regulating bodily functions (like digestion and hormones), boosting the immune system, and promoting overall well-being by encouraging the body's natural healing abilities.

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

Your initial Acupuncture/TCM appointment will typically involve a comprehensive intake process, often lasting 60 to 90 minutes. Your Registered Acupuncturist will discuss your main health concerns in detail, review your medical history, and inquire about your lifestyle, diet, sleep patterns, and emotional state. A key part of this initial visit is the TCM diagnostic assessment, which usually includes looking at your tongue and feeling your pulse on both wrists. Based on all this information, a TCM diagnosis (identifying your specific pattern of imbalance) will be formulated. Your practitioner will then discuss a personalized treatment plan with you, which may include acupuncture, and if you are seeing an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM, potentially an herbal formula, cupping, moxibustion, or dietary/lifestyle advice. An initial acupuncture treatment is often administered during this first visit to begin addressing your concerns.

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 Acupuncturist if you experience any significant discomfort during treatment.

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

Acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncteur (Ac.) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like RAMQ. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, but many private or extended health insurance plans offer some coverage for these services. Patients are encouraged to check their individual insurance policies for details, as coverage levels vary significantly.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system with thousands of years of history. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na (therapeutic massage), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered Acupuncturist uses these tools to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root causes of health issues. TCM aims to restore harmony and promote long-term health across a wide range of conditions.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically consult a Registered Acupuncturist (e.g., Acupuncteur (Ac.), TCM Practitioner) directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients should verify their individual insurance policies to ensure coverage and any necessary documentation.

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

It is recommended to have a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours before your session, avoiding 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 and alcohol prior to treatment. After your appointment, it's best to rest for a few hours, stay hydrated, and monitor how you feel. Some individuals may feel very relaxed or slightly tired, while others may feel energized. Reporting any changes or concerns to your practitioner helps optimize future treatments.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that flows through the body, essential for health and vitality. When Qi flows freely and in balance, the body functions optimally. **Meridians** are the pathways or channels through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages or imbalances in these meridians can lead to pain, discomfort, or illness. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies aim to restore the smooth flow of Qi within these channels to promote healing and well-being.

Clinique de physiothérapie Robert Daigneault
3050-4, av Choquette
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 1H1

Phone: (450) 778-3666

Julie Lussier is regulated by the Professional Code (Quebec) in QC and is a registered member of The Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec.

Registration Number: A-017-00

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.