Discover the Healing Touch of Monica Cannazza, Our New Acupuncturist

My Journey: I have always been passionate about holistic therapies, as they helped me navigate this fast-paced world with awareness and calmness. Eastern philosophy has also fascinated me, and I have travelled extensively to the East, learning about their ancient healing modalities. Before studying TCM, I was a massage therapist for many years and taught yoga for a time. In Thailand, while studying Thai massage, I experienced a flare-up of my ankle, which I had damaged years earlier during a fall that caused a microfracture. I visited a Chinese medicine clinic in Chiang Mai, where one session helped alleviate my pain and reduce my stiffness. I had two more sessions, during which the practitioner used electrical stimulation on the needles, creating gentle vibrations in my ankle. I recall initially being afraid of needles. Still, I found the experience very relaxing and, mostly, so beneficial that I have not had any further issues with my ankle since then. Years later, I was introduced to a book about Chinese medicine theory during a Shiatsu course. The book is “The Web That Has No Weaver.” It was significant to me, and it made a lot of sense. This was my first introduction to the theoretical concepts of TCM, such as yin and yang, balance, and harmony in health to prevent disease. A few years later, I was living with an acupuncturist and searching for a career path; I did not hesitate to pursue acupuncture. It felt as though everything had guided me to this path for years.

Qualifications: I'm trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture (BScHons—acupuncture) and hold certifications in electric acupuncture for muscular conditions
and a foundation in acupuncture for fertility and IVF support.

Experience: I have been practising for 4 years. I am a general acupuncturist treating acute and chronic pain conditions such as sciatica, lower back pain, period pain, migraines, stress-related ailments, and mental health concerns. I also support women in addressing conditions like irregular menstruation, hormonal imbalances, and fertility concerns.

Acupuncture Sessions: In the initial acupuncture session, I will conduct a comprehensive consultation and ask the client various questions to pinpoint patterns of imbalance and develop a tailored treatment plan. I'll examine their tongue and assess their pulse. Afterwards, I will insert fine needles into various body areas, such as the arms, legs, face, scalp, abdomen, and chest, leaving them in place for 20 to 30 minutes. Depending on the patient’s condition, I might incorporate additional healing techniques such as guasha, cupping, or moxa from Chinese medicine.

How Acupuncture Works: Acupuncture is believed to activate various chemicals in the brain, stimulating the body’s natural processes that may support healing. When needles are inserted, they can generate signals that influence neurotransmitters such as endorphins (natural pain relievers) and serotonin (mood enhancers). Many studies suggest that acupuncture may influence various pathways, including the vagus nerve pathway, which plays a role in the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation. Additionally, needles may help stimulate microcirculation, which could support blood flow and oxygen delivery, potentially contributing to tissue healing. Acupuncture is often used to support pain relief, stress reduction, and general well-being.

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‍Benefits of Acupuncture: Acupuncture may assist with both chronic and acute pain conditions, as well as stress, anxiety, headaches, and respiratory concerns. Some studies suggest acupuncture, when combined with IVF treatment, may improve success rates for IVF, although more research is needed.

Holistic Approach: Traditional Chinese medicine always considers the individual holistically, looking at all aspects of a person’s life: the physical and emotional components, lifestyle, diet, and medical history. By examining signs and symptoms and conducting a thorough consultation, a specific treatment plan can be developed.‍

Common Misconceptions: The first misconception is dismissing acupuncture as unscientific, viewing it instead as something mystical or too foreign to the Western world. Many studies and research on acupuncture demonstrate its potential benefits for various conditions, and it is becoming more accepted in clinical settings. Another misconception is that acupuncture is painful—not at all! You may feel some initial discomfort when the needles are inserted, but it usually lasts only a few seconds and is not consistently felt. Acupuncture needles are thinner than those used for blood tests! Lastly, acupuncture is not solely for musculoskeletal pain. It may also support various conditions such as sinusitis and digestive concerns, and it may assist women during pregnancy.

What to Expect: If you’re new to acupuncture or nervous about needles, I will start with fewer needles and guide you through the insertion to help you relax. I may also massage the area beforehand to help relax the muscle. During acupuncture, clients may experience various sensations, such as pressure around the needle or gentle movements in the body.‍

Other Chinese Medicine Modalities: Traditional Chinese medicine offers more than just acupuncture; several healing modalities can support circulation, alleviate discomfort, and balance the body. The first consultation helps me understand what may be most suitable for your needs, based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and body type. For some conditions, other modalities might be more effective than needles. For example, moxa, a therapy involving the use of mugwort leaves, is sometimes used for painful menstruation, especially where there is excessive coldness in the uterus. Warming the uterus with moxa may be a helpful option.

Before your Session: Stay calm, observe your body, and the sensations that may arise. And enjoy!

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What to Expect Before and During Acupuncture: You might engage in relaxing activities beforehand, such as a gentle walk, a hot bath, or some stretches to help your muscles stay relaxed, especially if you feel a bit anxious about needles.

Future of Acupuncture: I believe acupuncture and other forms of Chinese medicine will continue to grow in popularity as more people discover their potential benefits. I hope it will be more widely available in healthcare settings, allowing individuals who might benefit to access it. When combined with conventional medical treatments, acupuncture may complement care for certain conditions.

Research on Acupuncture: Several promising studies indicate that acupuncture may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). One study found noticeable symptom reduction after completing 12 sessions over four weeks. Research suggests that acupuncture may have an impact on the vagus nerve, which plays a role in regulating gut health, potentially supporting inflammation reduction and digestive function in conditions like IBS.

What I love About My Work: One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing clients leave pain-free after just a few sessions.

Moxa for Breech Babies: There are several studies on moxa therapy for turning a breech baby, a practice used in China for centuries. I had a client who sought help to turn her breech baby, and after applying moxa therapy, she successfully used it at home. Her baby turned, and she was thrilled to avoid a surgical procedure, as she wanted a natural birth. While it may sound incredible, moxa and acupuncture points can help stimulate uterine muscles, potentially supporting a more natural delivery process.

Acupuncture Results: Getting accustomed to acupuncture may take some time, but many clients quickly start to experience its benefits.

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