Meet John
I'm a Registered Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, and the founder of SUUM Clinic in Vancouver. I'm also trained in osteopathic manual practice, which shapes how I assess movement, pain, and the body as a whole.
I believe good care starts with listening. Every treatment plan is built around your concerns and goals, with a focus on helping you move and feel more comfortably in daily life.
What We Help With
Common reasons people come to SUUM Clinic:
Pain & Injury — Neck, back, shoulder, hip, and knee pain, whether recent or long-standing.
Headaches & Tension — Tension-type headaches, migraines, and jaw or neck tightness.
Stress & Sleep — Ongoing stress, difficulty falling or staying asleep, and feeling run down.
Digestive Health — Bloating, irregular bowel habits, reflux, and stress-related digestive discomfort.
Women's Health — Menstrual pain, cycle irregularities, and perimenopausal symptoms.
Neurological Rehab Support — Supportive care for people living with or recovering from stroke, Bell's palsy, and other neurological conditions, alongside their medical care.
Not sure if we can help? Contact us with your question before booking.
Our Services
Hands-On Care, Clearly Explained
Treatment for pain, movement problems, and everyday health concerns, guided by a careful assessment.
Each treatment is chosen based on your assessment, and many sessions combine more than one approach.
Osteopathic Manual Therapy
Hands-On Assessment & Treatment
Gentle, hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue release to improve mobility and reduce strain. The assessment looks at the whole body, not just the painful area.
Gua Sha & Cupping
Soft Tissue Therapy
Soft tissue techniques that increase local blood flow and help release tight, tender muscles. Temporary marks are normal and fade within a few days.
Acupuncture
TCM & Orthopaedic Acupuncture
Very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed at specific points to help ease pain, relax tight muscles, and support stress, sleep, and digestive health. Includes traditional, orthopaedic, electro-, and scalp acupuncture.
Tui Na
Chinese Therapeutic Massage
Chinese therapeutic massage combining acupressure, stretching, and mobilization. A good option on its own for people who prefer not to have needles.
Your First Visit
What to expect, step by step.
Step 1
Conversation & Assessment
We start with your health history and current concerns, followed by a physical assessment of posture, movement, and areas of pain, along with a TCM assessment including pulse and tongue.
Step 2
A Clear Plan
I'll explain what I've found in plain language and recommend an approach. That may be acupuncture, manual therapy, or a combination, with an estimate of how many visits may be helpful.
Questions Before You Book
Answers to common questions from new patients.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people feel little or nothing as the needle goes in. Once it's in place, you may feel a dull ache, heaviness, or warmth. These sensations are normal and usually mild.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Many extended health plans cover acupuncture. We do not offer direct billing, but a receipt is emailed after every visit so you can claim reimbursement from your insurer.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition and how long you've had it. Recent problems often respond in fewer visits, while long-standing conditions usually need a series of treatments. We'll discuss a realistic plan at your first visit.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to the knees and elbows is ideal. Please eat a light meal beforehand and avoid coming on an empty stomach.
Can I combine acupuncture and manual therapy?
Yes. Many treatments include both in the same session, depending on what will help most.
Book Your Appointment
To book an appointment or ask a question, please call or text (778) 486-2214.
You can also email suumclinic@gmail.com.
