Frequently Asked Questions

Japanese acupuncture is based on classical Chinese acupuncture. Over time, it evolved into a distinct system, influenced by Japanese culture, philosophy and clinical practice. To learn more about the differences between Toyohari and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), see my blog.

Traditional East Asian Medicine uses its own system of diagnosis and treatment, which differs from the model used in orthodox biomedicine. Rather than focusing on disease classification, TEAM practitioners assess patterns of balance and imbalance within the whole person. Treatment aims to support balance, wellbeing and the body’s natural capacity to regulate itself. Within this framework, practitioners work with a broad range of symptoms and health concerns.

In Toyohari Acupuncture, the aim is to support the balance of the body through the channels, or energy pathways. We aim to achieve this by balancing out the yin and yang channels. According to Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM) this affects the flow of Ki, the yin-yang balance and the blood. We believe the harmony created by the balance supports the body’s innate ability to heal itself.

In TEAM, the mind and body are viewed as an integrated whole. Thus, treatments may support physical, mental and emotional health.

In the Toyohari system of acupuncture, practitionersare trained in a range of non-insertive needling techniques. This means that the needle does not break the skin barrier; we work with the Ki on or just above the skin level. I use a combination of silver, stainless steel needles.

When needle insertion is indicated, or preferred by the patient, it is usually very shallow, to a depth of 1-2 mm. I use very high quality single-use only needles for insertion.

A typical Toyohari acupuncture session includes the questioning and an examination of the meridians, hara (abdomen) and pulse.  Once a diagnosis is made, the treatment is implemented using needles (non-insertive and/or inserted) and moxibustion. Each session may also include dietary and/or lifestyle advice.

Treatments are individually based and vary from client to client and session to session.

It is highly recommended that you should eat at least a small snack 4 hours before a session.

For adult acupuncture: initial sessions are up to 60 minutes and follow up sessions are up to 45 minutes.

For babies and children up to 12: initial sessions are 30 minutes and follow up sessions may be between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the condition.

This depends on the reason you are seeking treatment, your condition, the length of time you have been unwell, your constitution, diet and lifestyle.

A minimum course of three sessions is usually recommended, but this will vary depending on the above.

As a general rule, acute conditions take less time to heal. Long-standing conditions often take longer to transform.

Comfortable clothes that can easily provide access to the forearms, legs up to just above the knees, the abdomen and the wrists.

This privacy policy outlines how we collect, store and protect your personal information.

1. Introduction

We are committed to protecting your personal information. This policy outlines how your information is collected, stored and protected and the circumstances in which it may be shared with third parties.

It is necessary to collect your personal information in order to serve your health needs and for associated administrative purposes. Your consent to store your personal information is requested on the confidential intake form at your first visit, or if you book online, at the time of booking.

We will not collect or monitor personal information without your consent. Personal information collected is only what has been provided voluntarily.

2. Collecting personal data

We collect personal data through a hard copy intake form or online registration process. We will not sell, transfer, assign or rent your information to any third party without your permission, unless required by law or in emergency situations.

Your personal information may be used by us to send you information for education or marketing purposes, or to update you on changes to our clinic or practitioner details. You may opt-out of direct marketing at any time by notifying our practice verbally or in writing.

By signing the intake form, you expressly consent to the collection and use of personal information according to this policy.


3. Storage and protection of your data

Your personal information may be stored in the following storage facilities:
▪ Physical documents will be temporarily stored in hard copy files until such time as they are scanned into electronic form and stored on Cliniko, our cloud based practice management system. Once scanned, they will be securely shredded and disposed of;
▪ Cliniko, our cloud-based practice management system
▪ MailChimp for education and marketing purposes;
▪ Xero, accounting software in the cloud;
▪ Email where applicable;
▪ Peptalkr and;
▪ Any other electronic software relevant to our practice.

Your health information will not be used for any other purposes without consent, and consent will be sought before sharing with other health professionals.

Health records are retained in accordance with applicable legal and professional obligations.

4. Client access to own records

Individuals may request a copy of their health records at any time, or may request that their records be sent to another practitioner. A charge may be payable where the practice incurs a cost in providing access. This is for administrative costs such as photocopying, etc. Where access is restricted or denied, the reason for this will be explained to the client/patient.

5. Links to other websites

This site may from time to time contain links to other websites. We are not responsible for the privacy policy or the content of any of those websites.

6. Queries

Should you have any questions about Lee-Anne Armitage Acupuncture, this privacy policy or our website, you can contact us.