Acupoint Health Acupuncture, TCM Remedial Massage and Chinese Medicine Wellness Clinic

TCM Remedial Massage (Tui Na)

Tui na means "pushing grasping," and is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork. Based on the same principles as acupuncture, Tui na seeks to improve the flow of qi through the meridian channels and acupoints where Qi gathers. Tui na is particularly effective for conditions involving muscles, tendons and joints, such as structural misalignment, orthopedic problems and sports injuries. It can also be used to treat internal diseases.  Most treatments are given through the clothing however some treatments are given on the skin with the patient lying down or sitting.  Treatment may be applied to a particular area, meridian or acupoints and can be a great option for children or adults where needling may not be an option.

Cupping

Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may either be left in place or moved along the body.  Cupping draws stagnant Qi, blood and toxins in the muscles to the skins surface, increasing fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation, alleviate pain, eliminate pathogens and create a calming effect on the nervous system. Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as “fire cupping," uses heat to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, cups that use a small pump to create suction have also been introduced.  Cupping is relaxing and may be used in conjunction with acupuncture and Tui Na for improved results.  Cupping maybe retained on the skin for 10-20 minutes, quickly placed on and off the area or oils may be used to create a sliding cupping effect. Marks may appear on the body from cupping and may take 2-5 days or more to completely resolve.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves the heating of a particular area, meridian or acupoints  with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion may be applied directly on the skin, above the skin, on a medium including ginger or salt or may be applied to an acupuncture needle. Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment. 

Qigong

Qigong means "life energy cultivation" and is traditionally seen as a method to cultivate and balance qi. The practice involves rhythmic movement, focused breathing, and concentrated awareness. Qigong is a safe and gentle meditative exercise that promotes healing of the mind and body.  Other techniques may be applied or recommended during your treatment including yoga, tai qi, meditation, mindfulness to improve the flow of qi and decrease stress or anxiety

Gua Sha

Gua Sha involves scraping of the skin using a smooth massage tool to improve circulation.  Massage oil is often applied to the skin and the massage tool is used to repeatedly scrape the skin a short or long strokes.  Gua Sha is used to eliminate stagnant Qi in body and may be useful for chronic pain, muscle tension or inflammatory conditions including arthritis, fibromyalgia, neck pain, carpel tunnel syndrome or shoulder pain.  Gua Sha is often applied on the back, neck shoulders, arms, legs or even used as a gentle facial technique.  Gua Sha is a safe technique however some marking may appear including light bruising, red or purple spots known as Sha, these will resolve in a few days to weeks.