BY FRANCE THERIAULT

FEATURED IMAGE DESCRIPTION: An abstract art piece featuring various lines of colours, such as green, red, blue, yellow and purple.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This post is based on France’s personal experiences with acupuncture treatment. Different therapies, may or may not work for different individuals. This post should not be considered medical advice. BIST’s programs, such as our ABI Info Series, Concussion Series and Community Meetings occasionally discuss the benefits of different therapies and treatments. Learn about our upcoming programs, HERE and check out our previous webinars, HERE.

Since May 2013, after being diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury, I have been experimenting with many holistic modalities to support me in my healing journey, including: chiropractic treatments, cranio-sacral massage, naturopathy, homeopathic remedies, art therapy, physiotherapy, somatic therapy and many more.

Each modality gave me some relief. Some were more effective than others, and the lasting ripple effects were tangible for a longer period of time. My physical, psychological and mental state improved slowly over the years and time has been my best ally.

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Left image: a close up of a person getting cupped, with two glass cups being placed on their back. Right image: a close up of five acupuncture needles in a person’s back.

I have made tremendous strides, and my life has been transformed in a hundred little ways, and a few major ones.

I am driven by hope and curiosity to recover my abilities as much as possible. I have no time limit to heal and move closer to wellness. I believe wholeheartedly my body will always be able to heal deeper.

One of my mantras is, ‘I am worthy of healing.’

Curiosity invited me to explore Traditional Chinese Acupuncture a few years ago. It was fascinating to hear the information my Chinese acupuncturist gave me in each therapeutic session.

Acupuncture is based on specific anatomic points called acupoints. These points are stimulated using tiny, thin needles, which correct the flow of energy— also called qi or chi—restoring balance and relieving pain.

Many areas in my body needed attention. My jaw, my neck, my lower back as well as my left leg.

Tian, who was my acupuncturist, suggested  eliminating the following items from my diet: fish, seafood, dairy products and soy so internal inflammation could decrease.

Cupping was  also part of my personal non-invasive treatment when I visited her.

Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction.  I got many benefits using this technique: pain relief, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being.

Alternative non medicinal approaches were always what I favoured in my TBI recovery process.

Fast forward to 2023, I am almost there and it feels so amazing!

I am curious to know which modality has helped you in your journey living with a TBI?

Follow France on Instagram @Standingbyyourside65 where she shares stories and insights about living a beautiful life and meaningful life nine years after having a Traumatic Brain Injury from a cycling accident.