Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
TCM is a healing art system that originated thousands of years ago. It is based on the concept of energetic flow within the body along a network of pathways. If this movement is blocked or imbalanced, pain and illness result.
In TCM, the client is viewed as an interconnected whole. A problem in one area of the body is affected by and impacts the entire person. Treatment focuses on restoring balance, which will promote the body's natural ability to heal itself, and addresses the root cause of the disease that lies behind the symptoms.
The components of TCM include acupuncture, herbology, tui na massage, and cupping/gua sha. These techniques can be used on their own, or in combination with conventional Western medical treatment.
In TCM, the client is viewed as an interconnected whole. A problem in one area of the body is affected by and impacts the entire person. Treatment focuses on restoring balance, which will promote the body's natural ability to heal itself, and addresses the root cause of the disease that lies behind the symptoms.
The components of TCM include acupuncture, herbology, tui na massage, and cupping/gua sha. These techniques can be used on their own, or in combination with conventional Western medical treatment.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the insertion of fine gauge filaments, or needles, at specific locations on the body to alter the flow of energy. The number of needles used, location of needle placement, and amount of time the needles are retained varies according to the client's condition. All needles used for treatment are sterilized, single-use, and disposable.
Herbology
Herbology is the use of herbs in combinations known as formulas. Each herb has its own specific function- in a formula, these properties work together to create a desired effect. Formulas are often used in conjunction with acupuncture to support or enhance the goals of treatment. Pill and liquid extract forms are available for most formulas.
Tui Na
Tui na (twee-nah) is a massage technique that is used much like acupuncture to alter energetic movement. It is often used in soft tissue massage to stimulate and relieve pressure in muscles, joints and tendons. A variety of herbal liniments or oils may be used bring about the desired results.
Cupping and Gua Sha
Cupping uses plastic cups which are placed on the skin. A vacuum is then created within the cup to encourage energetic flow in the area. Gua sha (gwah-shah) uses a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin to achieve the same effect.
