Ascend Holistic | Dr. Matthew Rider, Dr. Ac.
Elevate your health.
Expand your life.
Rise above chronic pain and health challenges by treating the whole person - body, mind, and spirit. Through compassionate, evidence-informed acupuncture and holistic care, my clients reclaim their vitality and discover new possibilities for living fully.
Currently accepting new patients in Calgary, AB and High River, AB.
There is more available to you than you've been told.
Delivering the Emperor's Medicine.
In the ancient traditions of East Asian healing, the most revered physicians didn’t wait for illness to strike - they practiced what was known as the Emperor’s Medicine. This approach wasn’t about chasing symptoms or offering quick fixes. It was about treating the whole person - body, mind, and spirit - to cultivate deep vitality, prevent and reverse chronic disease, and expand what’s possible for a long, healthy life.At Ascend Holistic, I honor this lineage of care. You deserve more than a band-aid. You deserve support that addresses the root of your concerns, helps you rise above chronic patterns, and unlocks new levels of well-being.This is medicine not just for relief, but for transformation.
About Dr. Matthew Rider, Dr. Ac.
My committment to your transformation.
As the founder of Ascend Holistic, I work with people who are ready to rise above chronic pain and health challenges - and I believe healing is always possible.My approach is rooted in the belief that your body holds deep wisdom and capacity for change. Through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and holistic care, I don’t just treat symptoms - I help you reconnect with your vitality, shift long-held patterns, and expand what’s possible for your life.This is your invitation to a new experience of health - one where transformation is the goal. I’m here to walk that path with you.-Dr. Matthew Rider, Dr. Ac.
How acupuncture and Chinese medicine works.
A miraculous system of healing.
Chinese medicine is a holistic system that supports your body’s natural ability to heal and stay in balance. Through acupuncture and herbal formulas, we work to restore harmony in the body’s systems - especially the nervous system, immune response, and circulation.Acupuncture uses fine, sterile needles to stimulate specific points on the body. This helps regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and release enkephalins - your body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. You can expect pain relief, energy, and deeper sleep - even after just a few treatments.Chinese herbal medicine uses carefully selected plant-based formulas to target underlying patterns contributing to chronic issues. Each formula is personalized to support your digestion, energy, immunity, hormone balance, or emotional well-being - without harsh side effects.Together, acupuncture and herbal medicine shift your body out of "fight-or-flight" mode and into a state where deep healing becomes a reality.
What can Chinese medicine help with?
A versatile, complete medicine.
Pain Relief
Whether it's chronic or acute, acupuncture reduces pain by improving circulation, calming inflammation, and resetting the nervous system. Back pain, neck pain, arthritis, headaches - there’s relief here.Stress, Anxiety & Depression
If your mind won’t settle or your emotions feel stuck, acupuncture helps calm the nervous system and lift your mood. You will feel lighter, clearer, and more grounded - often after your first session.Hormonal Balance
From PMS and perimenopause to low energy and burnout, Chinese medicine helps regulate hormones naturally. Get back in sync with your body and feel more like yourself again.Digestive Health
Bloating, sluggish digestion, reflux, IBS - your gut affects your whole body. Acupuncture and herbs support smoother digestion, better absorption, and less discomfort.Sleep & Fatigue
If you're always tired or waking up at 3am, Chinese medicine helps restore restful sleep and real energy - without the crash.Immune Support & Recovery
Whether you're run down, catching everything, or dealing with a chronic infection, I help your body bounce back and build resilience.
What patients are saying.
Real people, real healing.
Healing is personal - but you don’t have to do it alone. Hear from others who’ve experienced transformation.
"I came to Dr. Rider looking for relief for a multitude of abnormal chronic health problems. Thanks to his careful attention and distinct approach to acupuncture, I was able to find peace in body and mind through our treatments. I feel lighter and healthier than I did when I first shook his hand. I highly recommend his services."
-Drew M
"I have found the acupuncture provided by Dr. Rider to be an effective pain management treatment for the arthritis in my hand, as well as some other issues. He is an effective listener, knowledgeable, and kind in providing care. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone."
-Linda L
Thank you
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