Description
About Khoi
Khoi Ngoc Vu is a dedicated Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac). Practicing at Massage Addict in Orleans, 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.
Khoi's role 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. He serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring holistic and individualized treatment approaches.
Khoi Ngoc Vu completed his R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2013). With over 11 years of dedicated practice since 2013, he is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. He has a particular interest and further training in acupuncture, continually refining his skills to provide effective and safe therapies for his patients.
His practice philosophy emphasizes identifying and treating the root cause of illness (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn), rather than just alleviating symptoms, to achieve long-lasting health. Khoi believes in a personalized approach based on precise TCM pattern differentiation, ensuring each treatment is tailored to the individual's unique constitution and condition. He adopts a holistic perspective, viewing the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable. He offers consultations in English, facilitating clear communication and understanding with his patients.
Common Health Concerns Khoi Ngoc Vu Addresses with TCM
Khoi Ngoc Vu provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
Respiratory Allergy Immune
- Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, including preventative acupuncture and immune-boosting herbs, to help strengthen the body's resistance to colds and flu. For active infections, TCM aims to accelerate recovery by expelling pathogens (Wind, Cold, Heat, Damp), relieving symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches, and fatigue.
- Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Addressing underlying Lung, Spleen, and Kidney Qi deficiencies or external pathogenic factors like Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat, or Dampness that contribute to allergic responses and chronic sinus inflammation.
Other Common
- Support for Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Hashimoto's, Lupus, MS - Adjunctive Care): TCM therapies, including acupuncture and specific herbal formulas, used as an adjunctive approach to help regulate immune system function, reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life for individuals with various autoimmune conditions. (Always in conjunction with specialist medical care).
- Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Early and consistent TCM intervention to maximize functional recovery and minimize residual facial weakness or asymmetry.
- 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.
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. Khoi can assess your needs.
Khoi Ngoc Vu's Acupuncture & TCM Services
- Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): A warming therapy using various forms of moxa (e.g., moxa sticks, cones, moxa boxes) to promote circulation, relieve pain (especially cold-type pain like arthritis), boost immunity, and enhance the effects of acupuncture treatment.
- 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): Therapeutic massage techniques integrated with acupressure, joint mobilization, and stretching to address pain, tension, stress, and promote overall physical and energetic well-being.
- Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Targeting key energy points on the body with precise pressure to alleviate symptoms, support organ function, and enhance overall well-being.
- 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.
- 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 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.
Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Khoi, 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.
Achieving Your Health Goals with Acupuncture & TCM
At Massage Addict, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Khoi frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Khoi assists patients with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) that's bothersome in reaching feeling significantly calmer, less anxious, and more emotionally balanced and resilient, fostering a return to beloved activities like enjoying seasonal changes with fewer allergy flare-ups and more outdoor time.
- Dealing with the ongoing challenges of uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes? Khoi works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume keeping up with your team during our weekly soccer match without pain limiting you.
- Experiencing dizziness, lightheadedness, or vertigo that affects your balance and daily activities can be draining. Khoi utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, so patients can re-engage with family outings and vacations without feeling held back, feeling revitalized.
- Understanding that irregular, painful, or heavy periods, or really difficult PMS symptoms can be frustrating, Khoi applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve accelerated recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strains, and a quicker, safer return to activity, allowing you to rediscover the joy in running your usual 5k route without knee or back pain.
Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Khoi, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.
Clinic Location & Accessibility
Practicing at Massage Addict, situated in the central Orleans neighborhood, Khoi's clinic is conveniently located near local community centers and public parks. The clinic is easily accessible via local public transit routes, making it simple for patients to attend their appointments. Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, designed to promote relaxation and wellness. Metered and paid parking lots are usually found in the vicinity, providing convenient options for those driving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture & TCM in Orleans
- 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.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered Acupuncturist in ON?
- In Ontario, patients can generally see a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner directly without a physician's referral, thanks to direct access. However, 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 with your individual insurance provider to confirm their specific requirements.
- What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered Acupuncturist help?
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na (therapeutic massage), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary and lifestyle advice. A Registered Acupuncturist uses these tools to address the root causes of health issues by balancing the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. TCM aims to restore harmony within the body and promote long-term health and well-being.
- Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?
- Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often not much thicker than a human hair. Their insertion is usually painless or feels like a tiny prick, much less intense than an injection. Once inserted, you may feel sensations such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of heaviness—these are signs that the Qi is being influenced. Most patients find acupuncture to be a relaxing experience. Registered practitioners only use sterile, disposable needles for safety. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience any discomfort during treatment.
- Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?
- Yes, TCM and acupuncture can be very safe and beneficial for both children and seniors when performed by a qualified and experienced Registered Acupuncturist. For children, techniques are gentle, including non-needle methods like Shonishin, acupressure, or very fine needles. For seniors, treatments are tailored to individual health conditions, often focusing on managing chronic pain, improving mobility, and supporting overall vitality. Each treatment plan is customized to ensure safety and comfort.
- Are Acupuncture and TCM services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- Generally, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner in private clinics are not covered by Ontario's OHIP. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. However, many private and extended health insurance plans do offer some coverage for services rendered by registered practitioners. Patients are encouraged to review their individual policies for specific reimbursement details.
- What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?
- Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist, involves inserting thin needles at specific points on the body to help restore the flow of Qi (vital energy). It can address various conditions such as pain, stress, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and more by activating the body's healing responses and promoting balance.
- What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?
- In TCM, Qi is the vital energy that flows through the body via pathways called meridians. These meridians connect internal organs to the body's surface, facilitating the circulation of Qi and Blood. Acupuncture points along these meridians are targeted to influence and restore the smooth flow of Qi, promoting health and harmony within the body.
Clinic Contact & Licensing Information
Massage Addict
2016 Tenth Line Rd Unit C4
Orleans, ON, K4A 3W3
Phone: (613) 845-0877
Khoi Ngoc Vu 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=5cb1283f-bd76-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.