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Acupuncture

For thousands of years, acupuncture treatment has been an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  It is practiced worldwide for the treatment and prevention of many diseases. Acupuncture points are found on a system of pathways called meridians. These meridians allow Qi (energy) to flow throughout the body. If Qi becomes blocked, and the free flow Qi is disrupted, disease and illness appear. Acupuncture is used to manipulate the flow of Qi to its natural state and balance the forces of yin and yang, thus restoring health.

Acupuncture is the insertion of thin metal needles into acupuncture points. The needles are hair-thin, solid, sterile and disposed of after each treatment.  When acupoints are stimulated, they promote natural healing and improve the function of your body’s systems.  Not only is acupuncture a natural medicine, it a safe, effective, non-addictive form of treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.

Herbs

Herbal medicine is an essential part of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  For centuries, the Chinese have used the natural properties in herbal supplements to treat disease. Herbs are combined into specific formulas that will be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment to improve your wellness. A formula of herbs may be recommended to alleviate your symptoms.  By using these prescribed herbs at home, you will be increasing the effectiveness of treatments performed in the office.

When used properly, herbal medicine is virtually free of side effects.

Herbal medicine is effective because it works to increase Qi (energy)and balance yin and yang.  Herbs help build your immune system and allow the body to heal itself naturally.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is the application of heat on an acupuncture point.  The herb mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) is burned near an acupuncture point to regulate the physiological activity of the body.  Moxibustion is most commonly applied using a stick of mugwort which is held by the practitioner over an acu-point. Mugwort may be used in combination with other medicinal substances (such as garlic, ginseng or salt) to create a natural barrier between the burning mugwort and your skin. Mugwort can also be placed on the end of a needle and then inserted into the body.  This warms the needle while the needle is in the skin. Moxibustion produces a strong aroma which may bother some patients and should be used with caution when patients have respiratory problems.

Tui Na

Tui na is a therapeutic treatment that utilizes massage techniques, acupressure, manipulations and stretches to treat and prevent disease. Tui na differs from other forms of body work in that the goal is not to sedate and relax the patient. Tui na tends to be a more intense form of body work than others and some patients may feel sore after their first tui na treatment. Like acupuncture, tui na is based on the system of meridians in your body to restore your body’s Qi (energy) flow. Because tui na helps to restore the free flow of Qi and the natural balance of yin and yang, the whole body will feel relief.

Cupping Therapy

Cupping is an ancient technique that helps draw toxins out of the body.  This treatment is effective because it promotes the flow of Qi (energy), blood and other body fluids.  One philosophy behind Traditional Chinese Medicine is that pain is caused by stagnation of these systems.  Cupping activates the stagnated systems consequently reducing the effects of disease and pain.

During a typical cupping treatment, small glass cups and an open flame is used to create a vacuum effect on the skin.  This opens the skin’s pores which allows toxins to be released as Qi is encouraged to move throughout the body.

Cupping is a safe treatment but can cause mild swelling and bruising on the skin.  The vacuum effect draws the skin up causing the skin to expand.  These bruises are typically painless and will disappear within a few days.

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a holistic treatment that utilizes a strategic stroking motion to break up the stagnation of blood flow.  This technique is highly effective for relieving pain.

Gua is the act of scraping or rubbing.  This rubbing motion causes Sha, a raised redness (petechiae) on the skin.  Before treatment a lubricating oil is applied to the area being treated.  A smooth-edged instrument is then used to stroke the skin.  This movement encourages the blood to flow more smoothly thus easing pain.  This rubbing action causes the blood in the subcutaneous tissue to raise. The red bump that results should fade in a few days.

This modality of Traditional Chinese Medicine stimulates the immune system, regulates organ function and rebalances the body.  Gua Sha is a relaxing treatment which rejuvenates the patient’s mind and body.