Sandra Lynn Mauro

Sandra Lynn Mauro 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): Using specific acupuncture points and potent herbal formulas tailored to the stage and nature of the cold or flu (e.g., clearing Wind-Cold versus Wind-Heat invasions) to shorten duration and lessen severity.
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Acupuncture and herbal medicine as a supportive and complementary approach to manage asthma and chronic bronchitis symptoms by strengthening Lung Qi and Wei Qi, resolving phlegm and dampness, descending rebellious Lung Qi to calm wheezing and cough, and tonifying Kidney Qi to grasp the Lung Qi.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: Building resilience against pathogens by fortifying the Zang-Fu organs responsible for immune function, particularly the Lungs, Spleen, and Kidneys according to TCM theory.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Chronic & Acute Pain (e.g., Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Knee Pain, Sciatica): Addressing pain by unblocking Qi (vital energy) and Blood stagnation in the meridians, promoting circulation to nourish tissues, and relaxing tense muscles and tendons.
• Headaches & Migraines (Tension, Cluster, Hormonal - TCM Management): Natural and effective solutions for managing debilitating headaches and migraines, aiming to reduce their frequency, intensity, and duration without heavy reliance on medication.
• 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.

Other Common

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Restoring vitality and improving overall stamina by addressing underlying deficiencies and energetic blockages from a TCM perspective, often focusing on adrenal and mitochondrial support through TCM principles.
• Dizziness & Vertigo (TCM Perspective): Differentiating the cause of dizziness (e.g., Meniere's disease support, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo - BPPV support) from a TCM viewpoint and applying specific treatments to restore balance.
• 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).

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. Sandra 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.
• 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 Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: A holistic diagnostic approach incorporating visual assessment and physical touch to complement tongue and pulse diagnosis for a complete TCM picture.
• Tui Na (Chinese Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork): Dynamic, hands-on bodywork based on TCM principles of meridians and acupoints to correct structural misalignments, improve circulation, alleviate chronic pain, and restore energetic harmony and balance.
• 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: 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.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): A traditional deep-tissue therapy using suction cups (stationary or moved along lubricated skin) to promote circulation, ease pain, break up fascial adhesions, and draw out pathogenic factors like Wind, Cold, and Dampness from the body.

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

• With Sandra, an Acupuncturist/TCM Practitioner, individuals with high blood pressure needing complementary support for management are guided towards accelerated recovery from sports injuries or repetitive strains, and a quicker, safer return to activity, focusing on restoring the body's natural balance to enjoy standing for longer periods, for example, while cooking or at an event, without discomfort again with greater zest.
• Many individuals seek the expertise of Sandra, their Acupuncturist/TCM Practitioner, when my child having frequent illnesses, digestive issues, or skin problems impacts their daily life. Through personalized TCM treatments, they often achieve significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels, empowering them to joyfully return to activities like feeling well enough to consistently attend work or school without frequent sick days.
• Understanding that feeling down, having persistent low mood, or experiencing unpredictable mood swings can be frustrating, Sandra applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, making it possible to rediscover the joy in playing with children or grandchildren more comfortably and with sustained energy.
• Many find that TCM with Sandra not only helps with curious about facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture for a natural anti-aging approach but also brings about experiencing more regular, balanced, and manageable menstrual cycles with substantially reduced PMS or PMDD symptoms, allowing for a more fulfilling engagement in managing daily stress with a greater sense of calm, focus, and emotional resilience.

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

Sandra practices at Peterborough West Acupuncture, situated in the North End, Trent University Area neighborhood of Peterborough. The clinic is conveniently located near the Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site and is accessible via Peterborough Transit. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Metered and paid parking lots are usually found in the vicinity.

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 Ontario's public health plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. It is highly recommended to check with private or extended health insurance providers, as many offer varying levels of coverage for treatments performed by registered practitioners.

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

In Ontario, patients can typically see a Registered Acupuncturist (such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner) directly without a physician's referral (direct access). However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to verify the requirements of your individual insurance policy.

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 may experience a slight pinch, followed by sensations such as warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness, which indicate effective stimulation of the body's Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed and often fall asleep during treatment. Practitioners use sterile, single-use needles and are highly trained to ensure safety. If any discomfort or pain occurs, patients should notify their acupuncturist immediately.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Absolutely. TCM offers gentle and effective options suitable for all ages. Pediatric treatments may involve techniques like Shonishin, acupressure, and dietary advice, while for seniors, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help manage age-related conditions, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. The treatment approach is always adapted to suit the individual's age and health status.

Does Peterborough West Acupuncture offer direct billing to private insurance companies for Acupuncture/TCM services?

Yes, the clinic typically offers direct billing for services provided by Registered Acupuncturists (R.Ac) and Registered TCM Practitioners (R.TCMP) to major private insurance providers. Patients are encouraged to bring their insurance details and confirm specific coverage, including any necessary referrals, annual maximums, per-visit limits, and co-payments. The patient remains responsible for any non-covered amounts.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints along meridians to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy). This process helps restore balance, reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, and support the body's natural healing mechanisms, promoting overall health and well-being.

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

TCM is a holistic system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and lifestyle recommendations. A Registered Acupuncturist assesses your health patterns through tongue and pulse diagnosis and creates a personalized treatment plan aimed at restoring harmony and promoting healing based on ancient principles.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In TCM, Qi is the vital energy that flows through the body via pathways called meridians. These channels connect internal organs with the rest of the body, facilitating the circulation of Qi and Blood. Proper flow of Qi through these meridians is essential for health, and acupuncture aims to regulate and balance this flow to restore well-being.

Peterborough West Acupuncture
1542 Ireland Drive
Peterborough, ON, K9K 2T2

Phone: (705) 768-2445

Sandra Lynn Mauro 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=a57d5841-548a-e611-80ca-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.