Thin Thin Yu – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Burnaby, BC

Thin Thin Yu is a dedicated Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at BG Acupuncture Inc. in Burnaby, BC, Thin Thin 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.

Thin Thin's role involves offering skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and overall wellness support. Care is focused on utilizing acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. Patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, are welcomed and treated with personalized approaches rooted in holistic understanding.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, Thin Thin Yu completed their RAC. Through ongoing professional learning, Thin Thin is dedicated to maintaining 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), with a strong commitment to individualized treatment based on precise TCM pattern differentiation. Thin Thin offers consultations in English.

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

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Auricular (ear) and body acupuncture protocols, such as the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol, to help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, irritability, insomnia), and calm the nervous system during smoking cessation or recovery from other substance dependencies.
• 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.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Addressing TCM patterns often associated with trauma, such as Heart Shen disturbance, Liver Qi Stagnation, or Kidney Jing depletion.

Other Common

• 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.
• 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.
• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Supporting the body's strength (Zheng Qi), protecting healthy cells, reducing toxic side effects, and promoting recovery and vitality during and after chemotherapy or radiation therapy from a TCM perspective.

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. Thin Thin can assess your needs.

• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: Utilizing traditional TCM observational skills (Wang) and palpation (Qie - beyond just pulse) to gather diagnostic clues about your underlying pattern of imbalance.
• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Guidance on or referral to Qigong or Tai Chi practices, which are gentle, mindful movement exercises combining breathwork and meditation to cultivate Qi, improve balance, reduce stress, enhance flexibility, and promote overall physical and mental health.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: A key TCM diagnostic method where the tongue is meticulously examined as a microsystem map reflecting your body's internal health and specific imbalances.
• Comprehensive TCM Health Assessment & Pattern Diagnosis: Thorough first visit to understand your unique energetic constitution (Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang, Five Elements) and identify patterns of imbalance according to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, leading to a precise TCM diagnosis.
• TCM Dietary Therapy & Nutritional Counseling (Shi Liao): Using food as medicine according to traditional Chinese dietary wisdom to strengthen organ function (especially Spleen and Stomach), improve digestion, build Qi and Blood, clear pathogenic factors, and promote overall harmony and longevity.
• TCM Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching (Yang Sheng): Holistic guidance on lifestyle adjustments based on TCM principles of Yang Sheng (Nourishing Life), including recommendations for appropriate exercise (e.g., Tai Chi, Qigong), sleep hygiene, stress management techniques (e.g., meditation, breathwork), emotional cultivation, and attunement to natural and seasonal rhythms to promote optimal health, prevent illness, and enhance longevity.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): A subtle and sophisticated TCM diagnostic technique requiring extensive training, used to understand the energetic state of your Zang-Fu organs and overall constitution.

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

• Rediscover your ability to swimming laps at the pool for fitness and relaxation without the burden of digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms). Thin Thin focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to reduced cravings and better management of withdrawal symptoms, aiding in addiction recovery (e.g., smoking cessation), integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Thin Thin can be a turning point for those affected by skin problems like eczema, persistent acne, psoriasis, or unexplained hives. The goal is achieving reduced inflammation throughout the body, as indicated by symptoms or markers, paving the way for you to enjoy engaging in mindful practices with a calmer and more centered state of mind and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Thin Thin believes in a partnership with patients. When trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling tired and unrefreshed arises, a collaborative TCM plan targets a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, enabling a more active lifestyle including enjoying meals without digestive discomfort, bloating, or subsequent fatigue.
• For those whose managing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments more comfortably has made participating in hobbies and social events without pain, anxiety, or fatigue holding them back seem difficult, Thin Thin's acupuncture and TCM care offers a path toward gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles. These time-tested therapies can be instrumental in helping you get back to participating in hobbies and social events without pain, anxiety, or fatigue holding them back with greater comfort.

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

Thin Thin's practice at BG Acupuncture Inc. is conveniently situated in the Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is near Central Park and easily accessible via TransLink, including SkyTrain (Expo and Millennium Lines) and bus routes. It offers a peaceful environment for healing and relaxation, with street parking often available nearby.

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 the treatment is working effectively to stimulate your body's Qi. Many patients report feeling very relaxed and even fall asleep during the session. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and exclusively use sterile, single-use needles to ensure your safety and prevent infection. If you ever feel any notable pain, inform your Registered TCM Practitioner immediately.

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

Patients in BC can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner, such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner, directly without a physician's referral due to the practice's scope of access. However, while a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to confirm their specific requirements.

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 are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with the body's exterior including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are located 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner in a private clinic are generally not covered by the provincial Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket. Many private and extended health insurance plans do offer some coverage for these services, but coverage varies. It is recommended to review your individual insurance policy for specific details.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles at specific points on your body to help restore the flow of energy according to TCM principles. It can effectively manage conditions such as pain (back pain, headaches), stress, digestive issues, menstrual problems, and more by activating your body's natural healing mechanisms.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive system that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these modalities to diagnose and treat the root causes of health issues by balancing the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, promoting harmony and long-term wellness.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and registered TCM practitioner or Doctor of TCM, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. Practitioners are trained to identify quality herbs, potential interactions, and contraindications. It is important to inform your practitioner about all medications and health conditions to ensure safe and appropriate herbal therapy. Avoid self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources to prevent risks of contamination or adverse reactions.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Yes, TCM offers gentle and effective treatments suitable for all ages. Pediatric treatments may include non-invasive techniques like Shonishin or acupressure, while elderly patients can benefit from acupuncture and herbal medicine to manage age-related conditions, pain, and improve quality of life. Your practitioner will adapt treatments to ensure comfort and appropriateness for age and health status.

BG Acupuncture Inc.
2315- 4500 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC, V5H 2A9

Phone: (604) 620-1908

Thin Thin Yu 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.