Do you have questions about our services, payments, or treatments? Check out answers to some common questions below. If you don’t see an answer to your question, please feel free to contact us!
Yes, acupuncture and TCM is very complementary with other therapeutic approaches. If you would benefit from other modalities in conjunction with your acupuncture and TCM treatments, your practitioner may offer you a referral or suggest seeking out said care.
Acupuncture provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.) is typically covered by most health insurance plans. Be sure to review your insurance policy and available coverage prior to attending your appointment(s). At the end of your appointment, I will be happy to provide you with a receipt that includes my details and registration number.
You do not need a referral from your family doctor to see an Acupuncturist or TCM Practitioner. Please be aware, however, that some insurance companies may require you to have a doctor’s referral for osteopathic treatment to be covered by them. Please check your individual policy for details.
While pain is a relative concept, the insertion of needles should be relatively pain free or at the most, the sensation felt should be no more than a momentary discomfort as the needle breaks the outer most layer of skin. Be aware that every patient’s experience is different, and can fluctuate based on health, emotions, physical exertion and even menstrual cycles.
You may experience slight bruising or bleeding at the needle site. If any discomfort arises, please let Desiree know.
There are many ways Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine could help you:
Rule of thumb, treat your body like the temple it is.
Rest! No strenuous workouts or exertion for the rest of the day. Your body will want to relax. Let it.
Hydrate! Drink a nice warm glass of tea or water with lemon before bed.
Cover up! Do not expose the back of your neck or lower back or lower legs to the elements (especially the wind, cold and rain). In fact, keep your body covered for the next little bit. It’s like the old runners rule — keep your muscles warm and you won’t cramp up!
Next Steps! We will figure out the best course of action for the speediest and safest recovery and solidify your Treatment Plan.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the world’s oldest medical systems originating in China over 2000 years ago. It eventually spread throughout the Asian continent and today we find branches that are native to Japan, Korea, South East Asia and even some modalities such as cupping being referenced as part of practices in parts of the Middle East. While being heavily influenced by Asian philosophy and culture, modern TCM incorporates classical theories with Western research, science and technology to better align this ancient science to today’s modern Western medical practices. There is an increasing number of studies that show TCM’s effectiveness in treating concerns such as pain management, chronic emotional imbalances, fertility and even cosmetic applications. Many hospitals and care facilities are now encouraging TCM to be used as a safe alternative to anesthesia, and IVF treatment clinics often recommend TCM as a supplementary treatment to optimize success rates.
With a greater number of today’s population becoming more self-aware about the importance of holistic approaches to health, TCM is quickly becoming a pillar in the integrative healthcare industry.
It takes a “big picture” approach to diagnosis and aims at identifying patterns of trauma, illness, habits etc. to form a diagnosis and treatment plan that can address the root cause of the issue so the body can rest, recoup and restore itself.
Great question! It’s difficult to imagine that these tiny needles can effect the body in any real way. However, believe me when I say that because acupuncture works closely with the nervous system, it is very possible to feel immediate effects from your treatment. It is not at all uncommon for a patient to feel a sense of calm and relaxation after a session, so take it easy. Don’t do anything vigorous or taxing right after. Let your body heal itself from rest.
It is also common to feel a little sore after the treatment. Nothing more than what you would feel after a good deep tissue massage! Though again, be kind to yourself. Your body has had a mini workout. Most people feel much better after a good night’s sleep.
Ideally, for the assessment (and possibly for the treatment) shorts or loose/stretchy pants are worn, and if you are comfortable, a sports bra (for women) and no shirt (for men). Your comfort is very important however, so if you are not okay with disrobing, accommodations will be made.
The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario’s website explains this very well: “Massage therapy consists primarily of hands-on manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, specifically, the muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints for the purpose of optimizing health. Massage therapy treatment has a therapeutic effect on the body and optimizes health and well-being by acting on the muscular, nervous and circulatory systems. Physical function can be developed, maintained and improved; and physical dysfunction and pain and the effects of stress can be relieved or prevented through the use of Massage Therapy.”
If this is your first appointment at Origin Wellness, please arrive about 10 minutes early to your as you will be required to fill out a confidential health history form. This will inform your RMT about any health concerns, past or present, including illnesses, injuries, surgeries, and medications. All of these details, and the conversation you will have with your massage therapist, will help to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective for you. The massage therapist may also conduct orthopaedic tests to further inform them of the state of your body and suitable short-term and long-term treatment goals.
Just about anyone can have a massage. There are certain conditions (heart or circulatory conditions, infections, etc.) that may be contraindications (meaning that massage may not be safe), but there are often ways to alter the treatment to make it safe and effective. If you are unsure if massage therapy is right for you, please contact us to discuss your concerns.
The amount of clothing you remove for your massage is entirely up to you. We can perform massages safely and confidently through clothing and sheets, or if you are wearing no clothing at all. Either way, standard draping techniques are used so only the area being treated at any given time is uncovered, and extra consent is obtained for treatment of any “sensitive” areas (like gluteal or pectoral muscles, for example). If you are concerned or curious about what to do for your treatment, always ask your RMT. We would be happy to explain in more detail to ensure you are comfortable and feel safe before we begin.
This is a very common question that we hear! It can be one in the same for some people, as relaxation is very subjective. In Ontario, all RMTs graduate with essentially the same knowledge and set of skills. The techniques we learn can be applied in many combinations and approaches, depending on the patient’s health history, current condition, and treatment goals. For example, some people need quiet music and a scalp massage to really unwind. Others prefer to chat and need to feel their tight muscles being manipulated to feel relaxed when they leave. The best thing to do is be clear about your treatment goal, and communicate your needs and preferences to the RMT.
Registered Massage Therapists are required by the Canadian government to charge HST. Health professions must be registered in at least 5 provinces in Canada before they are exempted from charging HST; currently only 4 provinces have regulated massage therapy.
Absolutely not. Some RMTs accept tips, but if you are happy with your treatment at Origin Wellness, we would rather you told a friend about our clinic! That is the best compliment you could give us.
If you feel the need to tip, we will be collecting your kind donations for local charities. The charity will change from time to time and the donation bin will be displayed in our clinic. If you have a suggestion for a charity we could donate to, please contact us!
You don’t need a doctor’s referral to have a massage, however, if you have extended health insurance coverage, your provider may require a “prescription” from your doctor. Please contact your insurance provider for details if you are unsure.
If you are contagious (with a cold or flu), have a high fever, a rash, or severe nausea, it’s best to reschedule for another time. Your body is already working hard to heal and a massage may make you feel worse in some ways. You will likely enjoy the massage — and it will be more effective — when you are feeling better. Also, sharing germs is never a good idea. If you’re unsure, please call us to discuss the best plan for you.
Registered Massage Therapists are Regulated Health Professionals. Our titles are protected and recognized Provincially, under the RHPA act. This means that the training and certification we receive is of the highest quality, and outlined by a “Scope of Practice”. This is all to ensure the public is safe in our care.
We are also governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).
The association for our profession, the Registered Massage Therapists of Ontario is another great resource. If you want to know more about what we do, or have any questions regarding our profession, please contact them with any inquiries.
Naturopathic medicine is a distinct approach to medical care that emphasizes the inherent ability of the body to heal itself. Using gentle, safe, and effective therapies, naturopathic doctors address the whole person rather than just the presenting symptoms to restore health and help prevent disease.
Naturopathic doctors have a minimum of 7 years of post-secondary education in biomedical science and are required to complete rigorous examinations to become board-certified practitioners. They receive over 4,000 hours of classroom training in addition to 1,200 hours of clinical experience seeing patients from all walks of life and at all stages of health. As with all licensed professions, they are required to complete continuing education credits and receive ongoing performance assessments to ensure the highest standard of care.
Naturopathic doctors have been regulated in the province of Ontario since 1925 and are currently regulated under the Registered Health Practitioners Act alongside medical doctors, nurses and other health professionals. As primary care practitioners, they are trained to gather information via detailed history taking, physical assessment and laboratory evaluation in order to diagnose and treat a wide variety of acute and chronic health concerns.
If you’re reading this, chances are you have already made an effort to live a healthier, more balanced lifestyle by tweaking your diet and making time for self care. Perhaps you regularly visit a health food store and feel overwhelmed by the options out there, or have purchased supplements after reading an article online, only to have them sit unused in your cupboard.
Naturopathic doctors take the guesswork out of making positive changes for yourself and your family. We take the time to stay up to date with research to ensure that the changes you make to your lifestyle are safe, effective, and meaningful. If you are considering making the first step towards living a healthier life, or are seeking guidance along a path you started walking long ago, naturopathic doctors have the skills and training to help you get there.
Before your first visit we ask that you fill in and submit a naturopathic intake form. Please come in at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time so that you can fill out this form.
If you have copies of recent lab tests or imaging from other health care providers please bring these with you so they may be scanned and added to your file. If you have not already entered information about current medications and supplements onto your intake form, you may want to bring those items with you into the visit.
Your first visit with your naturopathic doctor will take up to 90 minutes, allowing enough time for you to thoroughly discuss all of your health concerns and goals without feeling rushed. In the process of reviewing and adding to the information on your intake form, your naturopathic doctor will gather relevant details about your health history and lifestyle habits, including diet, exercise, sleep, mood and your current self care routine, including all medications and supplements you may be taking. Following this, your naturopathic doctor will conduct a focused physical exam including vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, etc.) and special tests as warranted. Following this you may discuss any further lab evaluation that may be necessary and obtain a requisition to have blood or other samples collected at a location nearby.
At the end of the visit your doctor will discuss treatment options with you and work with you to come up with a realistic, comprehensive, and individualized treatment plan. You will also be given access to our convenient online dispensary service so that you can start feeling better, sooner.
Naturopathic doctors are trained and licensed to provide a number of therapeutic treatments. At Origin Wellness, Dr. Sarah Grammaticos uses the following tools to help patients address their health needs:
Your naturopathic doctor will work with you to tailor a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level, and will fully explain the benefits and limitations of each test and treatment option you elect to receive at Origin Wellness.
At this time naturopathic medicine is not covered by OHIP, however most private extended health insurance plans include a set amount of coverage per year. We encourage you to check your coverage with your insurance provider to make sure you are getting the most from your benefits.
*Please note that at this time laboratory testing via requisition from a naturopathic doctor is not covered by OHIP.
Although naturopathic doctors, medical doctors, chiropractors and a number of other trained health professionals may legally perform acupuncture, only practitioners licensed with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario are eligible providers for ‘acupuncture’ claim reimbursement. When submitting your claim for acupuncture at this clinic please be sure to submit these treatments under ‘naturopathic medicine’.
Yes. Naturopathic doctors have in-depth training on the important role that vaccination plays in preventing disease and protecting the public health. The decision to vaccinate yourself or children is one that should be made on an individual basis, using the best knowledge available and sound evidence-based advice from all health care providers involved in your care. Your naturopathic doctor is available to discuss the benefits and risks of specific vaccinations with you so that you are empowered to make the best possible choice for yourself and your community.
Homeopathic medicine is a form of therapy that is uses extreme dilutions of a substance to correct an energetic imbalance. Homeopaths in Ontario are regulated by their own College and do not use any other treatment methods outside of homeopathy. Naturopathic education and licensing in North America includes training in homeopathic medicine, however this is only one of the therapeutic tools available under our broad scope of practice. For more information on the treatments offered by our naturopathic doctor, please see above.
| Email is best, as we work with remote reception: | |
| info@originwellness.ca | |
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Appointments are pre-booked, same day appointments may be available (check online booking site for up-to-date availability). Individual hours may vary and are subject to change.
We have availability at both locations for the following hours:
| Mon to Fri: | 9am - 9pm |
| Sat to Sun: | 9am - 5pm |
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