Xiao Qing Zhu – Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist | Richmond Hill, ON

Xiao Qing Zhu is a dedicated Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.TCMP) (Acupuncture Services). Practicing at Massage Habit in Richmond Hill, ON, he 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.

Xiao's role as a TCM practitioner involves providing skilled acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of common health concerns, including pain management (musculoskeletal pain, headaches), stress reduction, sleep issues, and general wellness support. His care is focused on using acupuncture to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and restore energetic balance according to TCM principles. Xiao serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, tailoring each treatment to individual needs.

Having completed his R. TCMP, R. Ac (Graduating Class of 2014), Xiao has accumulated over 10 years of dedicated practice since 2014. He is committed to ongoing professional learning and upholding the highest standards of TCM practice. Xiao has developed further expertise in areas such as TCM dietary therapy, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. His practice philosophy emphasizes preventative care and patient education (Zhì Wèi Bìng - Treat a disease before it occurs), empowering individuals to maintain their well-being through personalized treatment plans that address the root cause of health issues. Xiao offers consultations in English, ensuring clear communication and effective care.

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

Other Common

• Supportive Care During & After Cancer Treatments (Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects): Acupuncture, moxibustion, and gentle herbal therapies to help manage common side effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, pain, neuropathy, dry mouth, insomnia, and anxiety, thereby improving quality of life and treatment tolerance. (Always in coordination with primary oncology care).
• 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.

Pain Musculoskeletal

• 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.
• 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): Acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and related therapies to relieve radiating nerve pain, numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness associated with conditions like sciatica or peripheral neuropathy by improving microcirculation, reducing nerve inflammation, and promoting nerve regeneration.

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. Xiao can assess your needs.

• 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).
• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): Gentle and penetrating heat therapy with mugwort to strengthen the body's vital energy, improve circulation, turn breech babies (when applied to a specific point), and relieve chronic pain or fatigue.
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Convenient and effective classical herbal formulations, often derived from famous ancient prescriptions, to complement your acupuncture treatment or as a standalone therapy for various health concerns.
• 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.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Providing guidance on the preparation and proper usage of prescribed herbal formulas, including decoction instructions for raw herbs, dosage for granules or pills, and advice on potential dietary interactions or lifestyle adjustments to enhance herbal efficacy.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Utilizing cupping techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain (back, shoulder, neck), clear stagnation, support detoxification, and relieve symptoms of common cold or asthma.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Utilizing the synergistic therapeutic properties of traditional Chinese herbs, often in complex combinations, to restore organ function (Zang-Fu), balance Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood, and promote profound healing from within by addressing the root cause of illness.

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

• By addressing the root energetic imbalances related to chronic sinus congestion, pressure, or recurrent sinus infections, Xiao helps patients work towards a substantial increase in overall energy levels, vitality, and stamina throughout the day, facilitating a return to cherished activities like participating in community events and social gatherings more actively.
• Patients struggling with asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care can find dedicated support from Xiao. The therapeutic focus is on achieving a significant reduction in allergy symptoms (sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes) and less reliance on allergy medications, using a range of TCM modalities to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as easily carrying groceries in from the car in one or two trips without strain.
• If feeling tired all the time, experiencing chronic fatigue, or lacking vitality is affecting your ability to participate in hobbies and social events without pain, anxiety, or fatigue holding them back, Xiao's TCM approach aims for feeling empowered with practical self-care techniques, such as acupressure, moxibustion for home use, or specific TCM dietary advice, helping you to regain your stride.
• Rediscover your ability to having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities without the burden of brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or poor memory. Xiao focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to gaining a deeper understanding of their body's unique energetic patterns and needs according to TCM principles, integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.

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

Xiao practices at Massage Habit, located in the Oak Ridges, Lake Wilcox neighborhood of Richmond Hill. The clinic is conveniently situated near Highway 404 Access and is easily accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Convenient parking options are typically accessible.

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 provincial health plans like OHIP. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans offer some coverage for treatments provided by registered practitioners. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage levels, as they can vary significantly.

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. Common sensations include a slight pinch, dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of fullness around the needle site, which usually indicates that the treatment is effective in stimulating your body's Qi. Many patients report feeling relaxed and even falling asleep during sessions. Practitioners are highly trained in safe needling techniques and exclusively use sterile, single-use needles to ensure safety and prevent infection. If you ever experience notable pain, inform your Registered TCM Practitioner immediately.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive 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 uses these modalities to identify and correct imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, helping to restore harmony and promote long-term health. TCM can assist with a wide range of conditions by addressing their root causes.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In TCM, **Qi** (pronounced 'chee') is considered the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body. It is responsible for all physiological functions, movement, warmth, and immune defense. **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, and stimulating them can help restore balance and health by influencing the flow of Qi.

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

Patients in Ontario can typically consult a Registered TCM Practitioner or Acupuncturist directly without a referral from a physician (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's requirements before your appointment.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints to stimulate the flow of Qi along meridians. This therapy can help reduce pain, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions such as digestion and hormones, enhance immune response, and promote overall well-being by activating the body's natural healing mechanisms.

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), Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to select high-quality herbs, identify potential herb-drug interactions, and avoid contraindications, especially during pregnancy or for certain health conditions. It is important to inform your practitioner about all medications and health issues to ensure safe and effective treatment. Self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources is strongly discouraged due to risks of incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions.

Massage Habit
114 Towner Hill Road
Richmond Hill, ON, L4E 0K6

Phone: (905) 737-8898

Xiao Qing Zhu 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=f17d3410-c676-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.