Lisa Longstaff – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Kelowna, BC

Lisa Longstaff is a dedicated Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at Modern Method Clinic Ltd. in Kelowna, BC, Lisa is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, adhering to the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Lisa'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. Care is focused on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. Her approach is compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique needs, serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Lisa Longstaff completed her RAC. With clinical training and experience, Lisa is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has a particular interest and further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. Her practice philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach, viewing the body as an interconnected system where physical, mental, and emotional aspects are inseparable (Holism); identifying and treating the root cause of illness (Ben Qíu Bìng Gēn), rather than just alleviating symptoms, to achieve long-lasting health; and emphasizing preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs) to empower individuals in maintaining their well-being. Lisa offers consultations in English.

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

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Chronic & Acute Pain (e.g., Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Knee Pain, Sciatica): Natural and effective relief for persistent or sudden onset pain located in the lumbar or cervical spine, shoulders, hips, knees, and other joints or soft tissues.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Personalized treatment plans aimed at reducing pain sensitivity, improving energy levels, enhancing sleep quality, and restoring a better quality of life for those with fibromyalgia or widespread myofascial pain.

Respiratory Allergy Immune

• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: TCM strategies, including regular acupuncture, moxibustion, and constitutional herbal tonics, to strengthen the body's overall defensive energy (Wei Qi) and address underlying deficiencies in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang that may lead to a weakened immune system and frequent infections (e.g., colds, sinus infections, UTIs).
• 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.

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. Lisa 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.
• 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.
• 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 Tongue Diagnosis: In-depth analysis of various tongue characteristics to help formulate an accurate TCM pattern diagnosis and a highly individualized treatment plan.
• 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.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Traditional East Asian healing technique, often used for musculoskeletal pain, common cold, fever, or heatstroke, to address pain by moving stagnant Qi and Blood, clear heat, and promote tissue recovery.
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): Gentle and penetrating heat therapy with mugwort to strengthen the body's vital energy, improve circulation, turn breech babies (when applied to a specific point), and relieve chronic pain or fatigue.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Lisa, 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 BC and the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

At Modern Method Clinic Ltd., Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Lisa frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Through personalized acupuncture and TCM with Lisa, common concerns like pain, numbness, or tingling running down my leg (like sciatica) are assessed from a holistic perspective to achieve enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, helping people to once again enjoy running their usual 5k route without knee or back pain.
• Many find that TCM with Lisa not only helps with asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care but also brings about a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in enjoying intimacy without pain or hormonal imbalances interfering.
• Restoring harmony is key in TCM. For irregular, painful, or heavy periods, or really difficult PMS symptoms, Lisa crafts treatments to achieve for children, experiencing fewer common ailments and demonstrating improved overall health and development, supporting a return to activities like playing actively and roughhousing with their young kids or grandkids with joy and energy with comfort and confidence.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Lisa can be a turning point for those affected by chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections. The goal is experiencing more regular, balanced, and manageable menstrual cycles with substantially reduced PMS or PMDD symptoms, paving the way for you to enjoy maintaining a positive mood and outlook more consistently, leading to better social interactions and a more balanced, vibrant life.

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

Lisa practices at Modern Method Clinic Ltd., situated in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood of Kelowna. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Kelowna and is accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

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.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture, performed by a qualified Registered TCM Practitioner, is a therapeutic technique where thin needles are inserted at specific points on your body. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to restore balance to your body's energy flow. It can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including pain management (like back pain or headaches), stress reduction, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and much more, by helping to activate your body's own healing mechanisms.

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

In British Columbia, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner (such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner) directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, while a referral isn't legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. Patients are encouraged to check their individual insurance policies for specific requirements.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered TCM Practitioner 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/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these tools to address the root causes of health issues by identifying and correcting imbalances within the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang. TCM aims to restore harmony and promote long-term health and vitality.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is a vital energy or life force that animates the body and sustains health. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly through the meridians—networks of channels that connect the organs and tissues—health is maintained. Blockages or deficiencies in Qi flow can lead to pain, illness, or imbalance. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies work to restore the proper flow of Qi within these meridians, promoting healing and well-being.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Services provided by Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioners (R.TCMP) in private clinics are generally not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private and extended health insurance plans offer coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners. It is advisable for patients to check their individual insurance policies regarding reimbursement and coverage levels.

Modern Method Clinic Ltd.
810 Clement Ave unit 207
Kelowna, BC, V1Y 7C9

Phone: (604) 679-3203

Lisa Longstaff is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Registration can typically be verified with The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

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.