Why I Chose Acupuncture & TCM — And How It Can Help You
Hi, I’m Neil Dou, a registered acupuncturist based in Richmond Center. For years, I’ve worked with patients across Richmond, Surrey, and the Greater Vancouver area—helping them manage pain, improve digestion, restore hormonal balance, and simply feel better through acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
I wasn’t always set on becoming a TCM practitioner. Like many people, I grew up surrounded by both traditional beliefs and modern medicine. At one point, I was even encouraged to go into Western medicine. But something kept pulling me toward the deeper philosophy of Chinese medicine—its way of treating the whole person, not just symptoms.
In a recent YouTube interview (you can watch it above), I shared the full story about how a conversation with a family friend changed my path. That moment reminded me that healing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that real health often comes from restoring balance—not just fighting disease.
Acupuncture in Richmond: A Blend of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Practice
At my clinic in Richmond Center, I offer acupuncture, cupping, gua sha (scraping) and more services. These therapies are time-tested, safe, and surprisingly effective—especially when done consistently and tailored to your needs.
Many people in Greater Vancouver come to me for help with chronic pain—like back and neck pain, arthritis, or sports injuries. Others seek treatment for digestion issues, stress, anxiety, women’s health, or fatigue. And I’ve noticed something interesting over the years: people from all backgrounds are becoming more open to acupuncture.
Cultural Perceptions Around TCM and Acupuncture
One of the topics we covered in this interview is how different people respond to acupuncture. Chinese patients, for instance, often have more realistic expectations—they know it’s not a one-and-done fix. Meanwhile, many of my non-Chinese patients, especially athletes or active individuals in Richmond and Surrey, are eager to feel better immediately. That’s totally understandable. But part of my job is helping everyone see the bigger picture.
Acupuncture is not just about pain relief—it’s about restoring the body’s natural healing abilities. When a fine needle goes into your body, your brain thinks it’s a micro-injury and sends resources to repair it. This triggers the release of endorphins, improves circulation, and helps your muscles relax. That’s why after about 20 minutes into a session, many people feel a deep sense of calm. Over time, this leads to lasting results.
Why TCM Works in a Place Like Vancouver
Living in Vancouver has its perks—clean air, mild weather, and beautiful scenery. But it also means damp winters, long rainy seasons, and modern work stress. From a TCM perspective, external moisture and lack of movement can cause internal imbalances. That’s why I always encourage gentle exercise, daily stretching, and yes—sweating a little.
In the interview, I also talked about how important movement is for maintaining health in a damp climate like ours. You don’t need to run a marathon—just move your body regularly, and let your Qi (energy) flow.
Thinking About Trying Acupuncture in Richmond or Surrey?
If you’ve been dealing with persistent pain, stress, or just don’t feel your best, acupuncture might be worth exploring. It’s safe, drug-free, and designed to support your body’s own ability to heal.
I invite you to watch the full video above to hear more of my story, learn how acupuncture works, and see if this approach resonates with you. If you’re in Richmond, Surrey, or anywhere in Greater Vancouver, I’d love to welcome you to my clinic.
Let’s take the first step toward restoring balance—together.
