Raffy S. Koundakjian

Raffy S. Koundakjian provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Pain Musculoskeletal

• 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.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Acupuncture and local soft tissue techniques to alleviate jaw pain, clicking, locking, and muscle tension associated with TMJ disorders by relaxing masticatory muscles, reducing inflammation, and improving local Qi and Blood flow.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Holistic TCM approaches, including acupuncture, gentle cupping, moxibustion, and carefully selected herbal support, to manage the complex symptoms of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, such as widespread pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and 'fibro fog'.

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea (Non-infectious): Acupuncture and tailored herbal formulas to regulate bowel movements by addressing the specific TCM pattern causing chronic constipation (e.g., Qi stagnation, Blood deficiency, Yin deficiency with dryness, Heat accumulation) or persistent diarrhea (e.g., Spleen Qi deficiency, Kidney Yang deficiency, Damp-Heat in the intestines).
• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Harmonizing the Stomach Qi and directing its rebellious upward flow downwards to alleviate feelings of queasiness and prevent vomiting.
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Natural relief for upper digestive discomfort, promoting better digestion, reducing stomach acidity issues, and restoring overall digestive harmony.

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. Raffy can assess your needs.

• 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): A therapeutic technique involving strategic needling of acupoints to restore balance between Yin and Yang, treating a wide range of health conditions from musculoskeletal pain to internal medicine disorders.
• 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.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Acupuncture techniques focused on deactivating muscle knots and relieving musculoskeletal pain by stimulating specific reactive points in muscles and fascia.
• Electroacupuncture: Utilizing precisely controlled electrical stimulation through acupuncture needles to provide stronger or more sustained activation of Qi and Blood flow in the meridians.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: In-depth analysis of various tongue characteristics to help formulate an accurate TCM pattern diagnosis and a highly individualized treatment plan.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Raffy, 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.

At lambeth acupuncture & Physiotherapy Wellness Center, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Raffy frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Many find that TCM with Raffy not only helps with trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling tired and unrefreshed but also brings about a stronger, more robust, and resilient immune system, leading to fewer colds, flu, or other infections, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in getting in and out of the car smoothly and without wincing.
• It's rewarding for Raffy to witness patients find relief from TMJ, jaw pain, or teeth grinding that causes discomfort and headaches and experience enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum through TCM. A tailored approach can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in playing a full game of recreational hockey with improved stamina and less post-game soreness again.
• If feeling down, having persistent low mood, or experiencing unpredictable mood swings is affecting your ability to participate in having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities, Raffy's TCM approach aims for improved mobility, flexibility, and range of motion in previously stiff or painful joints and muscles, helping you to regain your stride.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of general muscle tension, stiffness, and aches throughout my body? Raffy works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of noticeable improvement in digestive comfort, with significantly less bloating, gas, or abdominal pain. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.

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

Raffy's practice is situated at lambeth acupuncture & Physiotherapy Wellness Center, located in the Talbot Village West area of London, ON, within the Riverbend neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently close to Fanshawe College (Main Campus) and is easily accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Street parking is often available nearby.

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.

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 are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often translated as 'vital energy' or 'life force.' It is considered the fundamental energy that flows throughout the body, responsible for all physiological processes, movement, warmth, and protection against illness. Meridians (or channels) are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate. These pathways connect the internal organs with the exterior parts of the body, including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians where the flow of Qi can be accessed and influenced to restore balance and health.

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

Acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. It is advisable to check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer some coverage for services provided by registered practitioners. Coverage levels vary significantly.

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 assesses your overall health, identifies patterns of imbalance according to TCM theory (often through tongue and pulse diagnosis), and develops a personalized treatment plan. Treatments may include acupuncture, herbal formulas (if registered as an R.TCMP), cupping, moxibustion, and dietary or lifestyle recommendations to restore balance and promote healing.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered Acupuncturist in ON?

In Ontario, patients can typically see 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 recommended to verify your insurance policy requirements before scheduling your appointment.

lambeth acupuncture & Physiotherapy Wellness Center
2457 Main Steet
London, ON, N6P 1R2

Phone: (519) 639-9761

Raffy S. Koundakjian 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=13def62b-c376-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.