Although the actual process is much more complex, Mallette makes a simple analogy between acupuncture and a computer program.

“If you know which buttons to hit, that is the place to put the needle and the type of needle, you will get the brain to send the right stimulation to bring healing. Each point on the body is connected with an organ which is connected with different parts of the body and different emotions. The treatment is for the symptoms and the cause.” 

Marcel starts a consultation by listening to what a patient says about symptoms and checks the 12 pulses and the tongue. "I go for the root of the problem, physical or emotional and what I can’t cure, I can help manage the symptoms."

He said acupuncture is a good way to manage many pain conditions related to arthritis, joints, tendinitis, sports injuries and menopause, as well as other conditions.

“It takes time but when it kicks in, it works. When I can’t do anything, I tell people and when I see something that requires the attention of Western medicine, I refer people to their physicians,” he said.

“My doctor sometimes refers patients to me. I’m pleased that many more doctors are recognizing that traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine can work together to help patients.”

Mallette, who works from his clinic, Mountain Acupuncture on Silver Star Road, takes about an hour for the first consultation and uses some needles then while making a plan for future treatments. He uses 12 to 30 needles varying in length from 1/8” to 3” at a time. The hair-fine surgical steel needles are used only once, and there is no pain when they are in place. The needles must be used on bare skin and not through clothing.

“It’s not a matter of belief. It works because the needles are used correctly. If it didn’t work, it wouldn’t have been around for so long. If people have had a bad experience with acupuncture, I would urge them to try it again but ask about the qualifications and philosophy of the practitioner,” he said. “Your body is your house and you want to have someone qualified work on it. Patients may have the same symptoms or condition but they might need to be treated in different ways. It’s all individual. I’m constantly learning and researching to find the best treatment for each person.”

Mallette also uses low-level, infrared laser to treat and speed healing for some conditions like joint, muscle and tendons, as well as for arthritis and scar tissue conditions.

“For me, the important part is taking the time with people. When people talk, they tell me things that might seem like little details but that can be helpful and important for the treatment plan. We have to be willing to think about things differently. For example, a slight depression may not seem important but to me it is very important.

"Taking the time is the key, both for the practitioner and the patient in waiting for the improvement, which is gradual but lasting. I know that personally. I feel very lucky that I am able to practise my two passions — acupuncture and art.”

By Cara Brady - August 01, 2008 - courtesy of Vernon Morning Star