Many people do not realize that acupuncture is fully covered under ICBC for car accident injuries. If you have been in a motor vehicle accident in BC, you can receive acupuncture treatment from a Registered Acupuncturist at no cost to you — ICBC covers it through your claim. At Artemis Wellness Clinic in Richmond, our Registered Acupuncturist Mandy Tam specializes in treating the specific injuries and conditions that follow car accidents.
What ICBC Covers for Acupuncture
ICBC covers acupuncture treatment that is medically necessary as a result of your car accident injuries. There is no fixed session limit — coverage continues as long as treatment is helping your recovery. Your acupuncturist documents your progress, and ICBC reviews periodically to confirm ongoing medical necessity.
At Artemis, we bill ICBC directly. You pay nothing upfront for approved acupuncture treatments.
Car Accident Conditions That Respond to Acupuncture
Acupuncture is effective for many of the most common conditions that follow a car accident.
Whiplash and Neck Pain — Acupuncture reduces muscle spasm, decreases inflammation in the cervical spine, and promotes healing of damaged tissues. Many whiplash patients experience significant pain reduction after just a few sessions.
Headaches After a Car Accident — Post-traumatic headaches are extremely common after MVAs. Acupuncture targets both the muscular tension and the neurological pathways involved in headache pain.
Back Pain and Muscle Tension — Whether you have acute back pain from impact or chronic tension from muscle guarding, acupuncture addresses both the pain and the underlying inflammation.
Insomnia and Sleep Disruption — Many accident victims struggle with sleep. The pain, stress, and disrupted routine all contribute. Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system and helps restore normal sleep patterns.
Anxiety and Post-Accident Stress — The emotional impact of a car accident can be just as debilitating as the physical injuries. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and calm the nervous system, helping manage the anxiety that often accompanies accident recovery.
TMJ and Jaw Pain — The sudden impact of a collision can cause jaw clenching, TMJ dysfunction, and facial pain. Acupuncture is highly effective for releasing jaw tension and restoring normal joint function.
How Acupuncture Works Alongside Other ICBC Treatments
At Artemis, acupuncture is often part of a comprehensive ICBC treatment plan. For example, acupuncture can manage pain between physiotherapy sessions, allowing you to participate more fully in your rehab exercises. Acupuncture and RMT work synergistically — acupuncture reduces inflammation while massage releases muscular tension. Acupuncture can address symptoms like insomnia and anxiety that other physical treatments may not fully resolve.
This integrated approach is a key advantage of receiving ICBC treatment at a multidisciplinary clinic like Artemis.
About Your Acupuncturist
Mandy Tam is a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) and Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCM.P) with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia (CTCMA). She provides treatment in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese — an important consideration for Richmond’s diverse community, especially when navigating the stress of a car accident and insurance claim in a second language.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after a car accident can I start acupuncture?
As soon as possible. You can begin acupuncture treatment within days of your accident. Early treatment helps prevent acute injuries from becoming chronic.
Do I need a referral for ICBC acupuncture?
A physician’s documentation of your injuries is recommended but you can begin treatment while waiting for this documentation.
How often should I have acupuncture after a car accident?
Typically 1 to 2 times per week during the first 4 to 6 weeks, then tapering as symptoms improve. Your treatment frequency will be based on your specific injuries and recovery progress.
Is acupuncture painful?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin — much thinner than injection needles. Most patients feel a mild sensation upon insertion and then experience deep relaxation during the session.
Book ICBC Acupuncture in Richmond
Call 604-242-2233 or book online at artemis.janeapp.com. Provide your ICBC claim number when booking. No upfront cost — we bill ICBC directly.