Summer Linda Ip

Summer practices at an acupuncture and TCM clinic situated in the Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines, as well as regular bus services. Our clinic offers a serene environment dedicated to healing and well-being. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available in the vicinity to accommodate patients' needs.

• 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): 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.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Application of firm but gentle pressure to specific acupoints along the body's meridians using fingers, thumbs, or elbows to stimulate Qi flow, relieve pain, reduce tension, and promote relaxation and balance, similar to acupuncture but without needles.
• 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.
• 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.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: Detailed observation of the tongue's color, shape, size, coating, cracks, and moisture to gain crucial insights into the state of your internal organs, fluid balance, and overall energetic balance.

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

• For those whose frequent headaches or intense migraines disrupting their life has made maintaining balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails seem difficult, Summer's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward improved circulation, often described as a feeling of warmth or better flow in extremities. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to maintaining their balance and stability while walking on uneven ground or trails with greater comfort.
• Dealing with the ongoing challenges of that nagging back pain that just won't go away? Summer works collaboratively with patients to reach the goal of reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers. This might involve specific acupuncture protocols, cupping, or moxibustion, all aimed at helping you confidently resume being able to concentrate better on tasks requiring mental focus for longer periods.
• Understanding that high blood pressure needing complementary support for management can be frustrating, Summer applies TCM wisdom to help patients gain a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, making it possible to rediscover the joy in feeling well enough to consistently attend work or school without frequent sick days.
• The path to overcoming looking for a holistic approach to managing a chronic health condition or autoimmune issue and experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes is often clearer with TCM. Summer guides patients toward reclaiming activities such as cooking and eating a wider variety of healthy foods comfortably and with enjoyment with improved health.

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

Summer practices at an acupuncture and TCM clinic situated in the Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines, as well as regular bus services. Our clinic offers a serene environment dedicated to healing and well-being. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available in the vicinity to accommodate patients' needs.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete 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 (e.g., Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist using TCM principles) uses these tools to address the root cause of health issues by identifying and correcting imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. It can help with a wide array of conditions, aiming to restore harmony and promote long-term health.

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.

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

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 MSP in BC. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private and extended health insurance plans offer some coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners. Patients are encouraged to check their individual insurance policies for specific coverage levels.

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.

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 sensation such as a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of heaviness; these are positive signs that the Qi is being influenced. Most people find acupuncture to be very relaxing and calming. Registered practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles to ensure safety. Always communicate with your practitioner if you experience any discomfort during treatment.

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

In BC, patients can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner (such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner) directly without a referral from a physician. However, some private health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy to confirm specific requirements.

6125 Sussex Ave
Burnaby, BC, V5H 4G1

Phone: (604) 566-3930

Summer Linda Ip 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.