ABOUT YOUR VISIT
Preparation for your appointment
Be Open: Dr. Laci has skillsets in both Western and Eastern Medicine. Be open to the benefit of other modalities that compliment basic acupuncture.
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Feedback: Communicating what you notice in your body or what is working in session is vital. It does not matter whether the feedback is positive or negative. It's ALL important to know.
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Scheduling: Most clients do best when the seek out treatment at regular intervals. Continuity of care is essential in health maintenance and primary prevention.
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Snacks: Try to eat something either a couple hours before your appointment or keep a snack in the car for afterwards. Helping your blood sugar stay balanced prevents lightheadedness or needle shock.
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Reach Out: Allow yourself the space to be curious about medicine and your body. Write things down, and ask questions. Dr. Laci loves to geek and talk about medicine.
TESTIMONIALS
Laci Ethier is one of the best acupuncturists I have ever been to. In almost 24 yrs of having serious health issues, I've been to over half a dozen different acupuncturists, most of whom couldn't handle the complicated and ever-changing nature of my health needs. Laci is one of those rare acupuncturists who is trained extensively in her craft, who is able to help ease your pain, relieve your stress or tension, increase circulation, help with digestion, boost your energy, relieve headaches, help easing breathing difficulties (mine are related to multiple severe EOE & MCSD attacks, combined w/ my other health issues), and help level out your mood. Both through the amazingness of her acupuncture gifts and through the kindness and sense of calm that is the heart of her practice - Laci herself; among many other things. I've been keeping her very busy, as my health has been changing far too regularly over the last three years. Laci has risen to the challenge and every time something doesn't work as well anymore, I need help with some new symptom or injury, or if there's something she doesn't know or isn't sure of, Laci immediately does research, never hesitating to put in extra time for her patients. Her commitment to helping us is as absolute as her determination to ease our suffering in every way possible. Laci creates a very safe space for her patients, an eye in the storm of your lives where you can feel at peace to regain your strength physically and mentally. She is also committed to making all of her patients feel welcomed and respected, including making her space accessible for those in scooters or wheelchairs (like I am). If there is anything you need to feel more comfortable or for your health, you only need to ask. Laci is determined to put her patients needs first, more so than anyone I have ever met. Her empathy and support has exceeded that of any member of my health team in my medical history. I honestly don't know how I would have made it through these last three years without her. I recommend Laci and Miywasin Wellness very highly. Laci is an incredibly talented and dedicated acupuncturist who is setting the precedent of what acupuncture should be today, in every way.
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Andrea K.
Dr. Laci is an amazing, compassionate, and caring individual. I have been going to see her for a number of years at different Wellness Centers for issues caused by an accident. I can honestly say without a doubt she has improved my quality of life. Through her knowledge of foods and supplements she helped me tackle my digestive and sleep issues. Not only that but also most importantly through use of acupuncture and cupping, I have been able to stay off pain medication and manage my pain. She always listens to any concerns or issues you might have, and develops a care plan accordingly.
Tsukasa A.
Absolutely amazing patient care. Dr. Laci Ethier does a phenomenal job of listening and adjusting the treatment based on your needs. Highly recommend.
Russel B.
Dr. Laci is so caring and knowledgeable. I always feel so much better after my cupping and acupuncture sessions. I appreciate her holistic approach and very welcoming and cozy space.
Mars L.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ACUPUNCTURE
What happens when I come in for a treatment?
Your practitioner will look at your tongue, check your pulse and ask you specific questions to assist in diagnosis. They will decide on the course of treatment and place needles into the appropriate areas while you relax and soak in the atmosphere.
What can I expect after a treatment?
The practitioner will remove the needles from the body. It is normal to sometimes have a drop of blood or bruise in the place that the needle was. You should feel the effects of treatment during if not immediately after treatment. Often times patients report either feeling energized or a little sleepy.
Does it hurt?
You may feel a bit of a pinch or dull ache when the needle goes in but it will subside in a moment or two.
What’s the difference between traditional acupuncture and the ‘acupuncture’ that is done in many physiotherapy or chiropractic clinics?
Traditional acupuncture is based on complex theories of internal medicine and should not be confused with dry needling, ‘medical acupuncture’ or IMS. Traditional acupuncture is used to treat both the manifestations and root causes of dysfunction within the body and is much gentler. Dry needling, ‘medical acupuncture’, or IMS is the use of the acupuncture technique of inserting a needle into a muscle group or singularly treating pain. Traditional acupuncture is a science based on multiple needling techniques, treats all 11 systems in the body, and involves manipulation of meridian systems. Traditional Chinese Medical Doctors and Acupuncturists are required to complete a lengthy internship and study for years perfecting their skill set. Physiotherapists and Chiropractors may study dry needling, ‘medical acupuncture’, or IMS within a few days to a few months. Although both areas of needling can be useful in treatment, they are in fact quite different both in theory and therapeutically.
How do you ensure that the needles are safe?
The needles used are pre sterilized and disposable. Needles are never reused and are placed in biohazard receptacles immediately after removal.
Is it safe for infants, children, or teenagers?
Pediatric acupuncture is a safe practice and children or adolescents do respond well to treatment. One important difference from treating adults is that the practitioner will leave the needles in for less time depending on the age. When treating an infant or young child the practitioner may only stimulate the points by placing the needle in for insertion and then removing immediately. In addition to needling, children are diagnosed using a technique called finger vein diagnosis.
Is it safe if I am pregnant?
Acupuncture is widely used in prepartum, antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care. It can be used to help the body get ready for labor or be used during labor and delivery to help with pain. Many expecting mothers and fathers seek out acupuncture to help with all sorts of symptoms experienced during pregnancy. It is especially effective in treating nausea and morning sickness.
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
Are there any cautions when taking herbs?
Chinese herbs have fewer cautions and contraindications than most western pharmaceuticals. However, there are some herbs that should not be taken with certain foods or medications. The practitioner will prescribe formulas based on the individual case and make sure to inform the patient of the necessary cautions.
Are there any side effects?
The most common side effects experienced from taking herbs include nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. A simple remedy if experiencing any of these symptoms would be to take your herbs with food or to add honey to help coat the stomach.
Are herbs safe for infants and children?
Herbal therapy is safe for infants and children. The herbal formulas are not different than the ones used for treating adults. However, the dosages and duration of treatment are decreased based on the age of the patient.
Are herbs safe if I am breastfeeding?
An ancient treatment principle of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the area of pediatrics is that in order to treat the child you must treat the mother. Herbal therapy is safe for breastfeeding moms; it can help a postpartum mom to heal after delivery and assist in production of nutritious breastmilk for baby. However, just like some western drugs certain herbs can have strong effects or enter the breastmilk and therefore are to be avoided. A core value of Miywasin Wellness is to respect the autonomy of our patients, and all mothers are encouraged to decide what they are most comfortable with for themselves and their baby.
What if I am taking a prescription from my doctor?
Patients are encouraged to inform their other doctors that they are participating in herbal therapy. Many herbal formulas are compatible with western medications and can assist in coping with the side effects experienced from such drugs. Some medications may not be compatible and the practitioner will prescribe a herbal formula according to the individual case of the patient.
FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
CUPPING
What can I expect during a cupping treatment?
The practitioner will rub oil on your back as you lay on the treatment table face down. When the cups are placed you may feel a grabbing with the cup edges and then a pulling up of the skin. The practitioner may leave the cup in place or apply a technique called ‘slide-cupping’. Some people experience the sensation of cupping as a both a tightening and releasing of tension.
Does it hurt?
If you are congested or have had pain in the area then you may feel tightness or discomfort. This discomfort is similar to what you may feel if you were getting a massage in the same area.
Why do many people bruise from cupping?
The bruising left behind from cupping is actually a very reliable diagnostic tool in regards to your internal physiology. Bruises may look a certain way or have a specific colour which assists your practitioner in understanding the best methods to further treat you. While there are limits, bruising can often be a sign of an effective treatment.
What are the cups made of?
Most modern cups are made of either silicone or glass.
GUA SHA
What can I expect during treatment?
Gua Sha is a massage technique with the use of a tool referred to as a ‘comb’. It is often done on the neck, back, and shoulders. The practitioner will use this tool to scrape across your skin.
Does it hurt?
Many find the sensation of scraping to be quite relaxing and comparable to getting a massage.
Why is my skin so red after treatment?
The red marks on the skin, called petechiae, can be a sign of improved blood flow or relief of muscle tension. The markings should go away within a few hours to a few days.
FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
AURICULAR
What can I expect during treatment?
Auricular therapy is administered with the use of either needles or vacarria seeds placed into the ears. It is important to remember that using the treatment principle of microsystems can often produce a strong therapeutic effect. Therefore the practitioner will have you laying or sitting down in the case of lightheadedness or a vagal reaction. Clients who are hungry, deficient, or fatigued may have this reaction but it will subside. Patients are advised to eat 30 min before treatment. When removing the needles it also common to have a bit of bleeding; the amount similar to what you may find when someone checks their blood sugar.
Can I get treatment if I am high or intoxicated?
Absolutely, if you have just used you can still benefit from treatment. Some advice would be to seek out the use of auricular therapy as a remedy before considering other substances. You might find some relief with the help of a few needles or seeds and the companionship of an empathetic listener.
What if I have a fear of needles or am recovering from an addiction where it is necessary for me to stay away from needles?
Forget about the needles, we've got seeds! We’ve got you covered.