Zixin Qi

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

Digestive Gastrointestinal

• Nausea & Vomiting (e.g., Morning Sickness, Post-Chemotherapy): Safe and natural relief from nausea, helping to improve comfort and ability to maintain hydration and nutrition.
• Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD) - Supportive TCM Care: Acupuncture and herbal medicine as a complementary therapy to help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life for individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. (Used alongside conventional medical management).
• Acid Reflux (GERD), Heartburn & Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Reducing symptoms of GERD and dyspepsia by harmonizing the middle jiao (digestive center) and addressing underlying imbalances without relying on long-term acid suppression.

Respiratory & Immune

• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Natural and effective strategies for managing acute allergy symptoms and reducing the frequency and severity of chronic allergic rhinitis or sinusitis.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: TCM strategies, including regular acupuncture, moxibustion, and constitutional herbal tonics, to strengthen the body's overall defensive energy (Wei Qi) and address underlying deficiencies in Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang that may lead to a weakened immune system and frequent infections (e.g., colds, sinus infections, UTIs).
• Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Cough (Supportive TCM Care): Holistic TCM care designed to improve breathing capacity, reduce reliance on inhalers (where appropriate and in consultation with an MD), clear persistent phlegm, and enhance overall respiratory health and resilience.
• Common Cold, Flu & Viral Infections (Prevention & Accelerated Recovery): Natural support for strengthening your immunity, reducing susceptibility to common infections, and helping you recover more quickly and completely when you do get sick.

Pain & Musculoskeletal

• Arthritis & Joint Pain (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis - Supportive Care): Managing arthritic symptoms by addressing underlying TCM patterns such as Bi Syndrome (Painful Obstruction due to Wind, Cold, Damp, or Heat), and nourishing Kidney essence to support bone and joint health.
• 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.
• 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.
• Headaches & Migraines (Tension, Cluster, Hormonal - TCM Management): Identifying specific TCM patterns contributing to head pain (e.g., temporal, occipital, vertex headaches) and providing personalized treatments, including acupuncture and herbal formulas, for lasting relief and prevention.

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. Zixin can assess your needs.

• 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.
• Acupuncture Treatment (Body Acupuncture): Insertion of fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific acupoints on the body's meridians (energy pathways) to stimulate Qi (vital energy) flow, alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, regulate organ function, and promote natural healing.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Ear acupuncture or acupressure (using seeds for prolonged stimulation) to address issues like pain, addiction (e.g., smoking cessation, NADA protocol), stress, anxiety, and internal disorders by targeting corresponding reflex points on the ear.
• 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.
• Electroacupuncture: Utilizing precisely controlled electrical stimulation through acupuncture needles to provide stronger or more sustained activation of Qi and Blood flow in the meridians.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Targeting specific motor points (areas where nerves enter muscles) or Ashi (tender) points with acupuncture needles to release muscle trigger points, alleviate myofascial pain, restore muscle function, and improve range of motion. (May be described as dry needling when performed by an acupuncturist within a TCM framework).
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Traditional East Asian healing technique, often used for musculoskeletal pain, common cold, fever, or heatstroke, to address pain by moving stagnant Qi and Blood, clear heat, and promote tissue recovery.

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

• Through personalized acupuncture and TCM with Zixin, common concerns like fertility challenges, trying to conceive, or wanting to prepare my body for pregnancy are assessed from a holistic perspective to achieve experiencing more regular, balanced, and manageable menstrual cycles with substantially reduced PMS or PMDD symptoms, helping people to once again enjoy playing actively and roughhousing with their young kids or grandkids with joy and energy.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Zixin can be a turning point for those affected by asthma or breathing difficulties needing supportive, natural care. The goal is achieving more regular, comfortable, and predictable bowel movements, paving the way for you to enjoy reaching for items on high shelves or in cupboards without shoulder strain and a more balanced, vibrant life.
• Patients struggling with TMJ, jaw pain, or teeth grinding that causes discomfort and headaches can find dedicated support from Zixin. The therapeutic focus is on achieving visible improvement in chronic skin conditions like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, with healthier-looking skin, using a range of TCM modalities to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with improved stamina and less post-game soreness.
• If knee, hip, or other joint pain making movement difficult is preventing you from fully enjoying getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up, Zixin offers skilled acupuncture and TCM care. Treatment focuses on a more positive outlook and improved mood stability, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies (if R.TCMP), and lifestyle advice to help you regain balance and function.

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

Practicing at Revive Health Centre, situated in the Humewood-Cedarvale neighbourhood of Toronto, Zixin’s clinic is conveniently located near the Royal Ontario Museum. The clinic is accessible via TTC, including subway, streetcar, and bus routes. Our clinic offers a serene environment for healing, and metered and paid parking lots are usually available in the vicinity to accommodate patients arriving by car.

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) within a private clinic are generally NOT covered by Ontario's provincial health plan (OHIP). Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these services. However, many private or extended health insurance plans do offer reimbursement for treatments by registered practitioners. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy, as coverage levels can vary significantly.

Is TCM and Acupuncture suitable for children or the elderly?

Absolutely. TCM offers gentle and effective options suitable for all ages. Pediatric treatments may include techniques such as Shonishin (non-invasive needling), acupressure, and dietary advice. For seniors, acupuncture and herbal medicine can be beneficial for managing age-related conditions, pain, and improving quality of life. Your Registered Acupuncturist will tailor treatments to suit your age and health status, ensuring comfort and safety.

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 (vital energy) along meridians. According to TCM, this helps to restore balance, reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate organ functions, and promote overall well-being. Many patients experience relaxation and a sense of renewal during and after treatments.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body, supporting physiological functions, movement, warmth, and immunity. Meridians are the pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate, connecting internal organs with external body parts. Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and serve as access points to influence the flow of Qi, helping to restore health and balance.

What are Cupping, Moxibustion, Gua Sha, and Tui Na?

These are adjunct therapies used in TCM. Cupping involves placing suction cups on the skin to improve circulation and relieve muscle tension. Moxibustion uses heat from burning mugwort near acupuncture points to invigorate Qi and Blood. Gua Sha involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to promote circulation and reduce pain. Tui Na is a therapeutic massage technique that stimulates acupressure points and meridians to alleviate pain and restore harmony. Your practitioner will determine if these therapies are appropriate for your condition.

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

In Ontario, patients can typically access 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 the requirements of your insurance provider before your appointment.

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic health system that seeks to restore balance within the body. A Registered Acupuncturist assesses your overall health, including tongue and pulse diagnosis, to identify patterns of imbalance. Treatments may involve acupuncture, herbal medicine (if qualified as R.TCMP), cupping, moxibustion, and lifestyle or dietary advice, all aimed at promoting natural healing and well-being.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be comfortable or only slightly prickly. The needles are very thin, and many experience little to no sensation upon insertion. Some may feel a dull ache, warmth, or tingling, which indicates effective stimulation. Practitioners are trained to use sterile, single-use needles to ensure safety and prevent infection. If you experience any discomfort or pain, notify your practitioner immediately.

Revive Health Centre
771 St. Clair Ave W.
Toronto, ON, M6C 1B4

Phone: (416) 640-1000

Zixin Qi 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=e17d3410-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.