Na Kyung Kim – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Vaughan, ON

Na Kyung Kim is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at GS Acupuncture Clinic in Vaughan, ON, she 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.

Na specializes in 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. Her care approach focuses on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized and compassionate treatment for everyone.

Na Kyung Kim completed her R. TCMP, R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2022). With over 2 years of dedicated practice since 2022, she is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. She has a particular interest or further training in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. Her 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; utilizing time-tested therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine to support the body's innate healing capacity and restore natural balance (Yin-Yang Harmony). She offers consultations in English and Korean.

Na Kyung Kim 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Sports Injuries (e.g., Sprains, Strains, Tendinitis) & Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Comprehensive TCM strategies to manage pain, improve healing, and address underlying imbalances that may contribute to recurrent sports injuries or repetitive strain conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Acupuncture, herbal formulas, and lifestyle advice to address different types of sleep disturbances by harmonizing Yin and Yang, calming the mind, anchoring the Shen, and resolving underlying TCM patterns such as Heart Fire, Liver Qi Stagnation disturbing the Hun, Spleen Qi Deficiency leading to overthinking, or Kidney Yin Deficiency with empty heat.
• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Natural and effective aid to assist individuals in their journey to overcome addictive behaviors and reduce reliance on harmful substances.

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. Na can assess your needs.

• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Targeting specific motor points (areas where nerves enter muscles) or Ashi (tender) points with acupuncture needles to release muscle trigger points, alleviate myofascial pain, restore muscle function, and improve range of motion. (May be described as dry needling when performed by an acupuncturist within a TCM framework).
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): A contemporary acupuncture technique involving the insertion of needles into specific therapeutic zones on the scalp that correspond to different body functions and brain areas (e.g., motor, sensory, balance zones), primarily used for neurological disorders, stroke rehabilitation, chronic pain, and psycho-emotional conditions.
• Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Using established and time-tested patent herbal remedies (Cheng Yao) that have been trusted for generations to address specific symptoms or support overall health and organ system balance.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Stimulation of specific reflex points on the ear (auricle) using fine needles, small seeds (e.g., vaccaria seeds), or beads affixed with tape to treat various health conditions throughout the body, based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body.
• 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.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Supporting patients in their herbal medicine journey with clear instructions, quality-sourced herbs, and ongoing monitoring of their response to treatment.

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

• Experiencing seasonal allergies (hay fever) making me sneeze, congested, and miserable can be draining. Na utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for a stronger, more robust, and resilient immune system, leading to fewer colds, flu, or other infections, so patients can re-engage with walking up and down several flights of stairs without issue feeling revitalized.
• Na believes in a partnership with patients. When symptoms of Bell's Palsy or facial paralysis needing support for recovery arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets experiencing more regular, balanced, and manageable menstrual cycles with substantially reduced PMS or PMDD symptoms, enabling a more active lifestyle including reducing reliance on pain, sleep, or anxiety medications (always under medical guidance).
• If managing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments more comfortably is affecting your ability to participate in managing their personal care routines independently, Na's TCM approach aims for improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities, helping you to regain your stride.
• Na 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 an enhanced overall quality of life and a greater capacity to enjoy daily activities and social engagements, supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities.

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

Na practices at GS Acupuncture Clinic, situated in the Woodbridge East neighborhood of Vaughan. The clinic is conveniently located near Cineplex Cinemas Vaughan and is easily accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, with metered and paid parking lots usually available in the vicinity, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all patients.

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 the practitioner about all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and existing health conditions. Patients should avoid self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources due to risks of incorrect diagnosis, improper formulation, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing to ensure safety.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

For most people, acupuncture is not painful. The needles used are very thin, and many individuals feel little to no sensation upon insertion. Some common sensations include a slight initial pinch, followed by a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness around the needle site, which usually indicates effective stimulation of Qi. Many patients feel very relaxed and may even fall asleep during treatment. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and use sterile, single-use needles to prevent infection. If any significant pain occurs, patients should inform their practitioner immediately.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that sustains the body's functions. When Qi flows smoothly and abundantly, health is maintained. **Meridians** are channels through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages or deficiencies in Qi flow can lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture aims to restore the proper flow of Qi within these meridians.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic approach to health rooted in ancient principles. A Registered TCM Practitioner assesses your overall health using techniques like tongue and pulse diagnosis, then develops a personalized treatment plan that may include acupuncture, herbal formulas, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice to restore balance and support healing.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Generally, acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in private clinics are not covered by Ontario's OHIP. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket but should check their private or extended health plans as some may offer partial or full coverage for services by registered practitioners, depending on the plan.

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

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

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. This stimulates the flow of Qi along meridians, helping to reduce pain, improve sleep, alleviate stress, regulate organ function, and promote overall well-being by supporting the body's natural healing processes.

GS Acupuncture Clinic
7777 Weston Rd #202
Vaughan, ON, L4L 0G9

Phone: (905) 265-2526

Na Kyung Kim 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=ff8db05d-2252-ec11-8116-005056a97495

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.