Treatments
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to promote healing, balance, and well-being. It has been used for thousands of years and is based on the concept of energy flow, or "Qi" (pronounced "chi"), which moves along pathways in the body known as meridians or channels. When Qi becomes blocked, deficient, or excessive, it can lead to physical or emotional symptoms.
By stimulating specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to restore the natural flow of Qi, balance the body, and support the body's inherent ability to heal itself. Acupuncture is commonly used to address pain, stress, anxiety, digestive disorders, fertility concerns, and many other conditions.
From a scientific perspective, acupuncture is believed to work by stimulating the nervous system and influencing the body’s connective tissues, or fascia. When needles are inserted, they interact with the fascia, which is a network that supports muscles, nerves, and organs. This can trigger changes at a cellular level, including the release of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s energy molecule. The release of ATP can promote healing, reduce inflammation, and increase blood flow to the area.
Cupping
Cupping is a therapeutic technique in Chinese medicine where cups, typically made of glass, bamboo, or silicone, are placed on the skin to create a vacuum. This vacuum draws the skin and underlying tissue into the cup, increasing blood flow to the area. Cupping can help relieve muscle tension, promote circulation, and clear stagnation, which in Chinese medicine is often seen as blockages in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood.
There are a few different types of cupping. The types I offer in my clinic are:
Static Cupping: Cups are placed on the skin without any additional treatment. This is often used to relieve pain and tension, especially in muscles.
Moving Cupping: Oil is applied to the skin before placing the cup, which allows the practitioner to move the cup around the treatment area. This is commonly used for muscle relaxation and covering larger areas, such as the back.
Cupping is used to address pain, respiratory issues (like colds and coughs), digestive problems, and some skin conditions. It also has an emotional aspect, as releasing physical tension can sometimes help with emotional release, particularly in areas where tension is stored. The technique often leaves circular bruises or marks, which are painless and fade within a few days.
Moxa
Moxa, short for "moxibustion," is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning the dried leaves of the mugwort plant (Artemisia vulgaris) near or on specific acupuncture points on the body. The heat from the burning moxa is believed to stimulate these points, helping to invigorate Qi (vital energy), dispel cold, and promote overall balance and healing.
Moxa is commonly used to treat conditions associated with coldness and deficiency, such as digestive issues, joint pain, menstrual cramps, or fatigue. It can also be used to support the immune system, improve circulation, and help the body recover from chronic illness. Moxa is thought to penetrate deeply into the tissues, warming and nourishing them, which in turn strengthens Qi and Blood, improves circulation, and helps the body to heal.
Tui Na
Tui Na (pronounced "tway-nah") is a traditional Chinese therapeutic massage technique that forms part of Chinese medicine, similar to acupuncture but using manual manipulation instead of needles. The term Tui Na translates to "push and grasp," referring to the primary techniques used in the practice.
In Tui Na, various hand techniques are used such as kneading, rolling, pressing, rubbing, and grasping on specific points and meridians across the body to balance the flow of Qi (energy), improve circulation, and address health issues. It can be performed with varying pressure and intensity, from gentle, relaxing strokes to vigorous, deeper manipulations.
Tui Na is particularly beneficial for musculoskeletal problems, such as joint pain, back pain, and muscle tension, but can also address internal issues like digestive or emotional imbalances. It can be practiced on its own or combined with other Chinese medicine treatments like acupuncture, herbal medicine, or Qi Gong for a holistic approach to health.
