Chinese Medicine Modalities
Although acupuncture is a central tenant of the practice of Chinese Medicine, several other modalities are included and can be used to promote healing and wellness.
Acupuncturists commonly use any or all of the following modalities during the course of a patient's treatment:
Gua Sha:
Gua Sha is a healing technique that involves deeply stroking the skin using a round-edged instrument. The stroking results in the appearance of small red petechiae called “Sha.” Sha will only appear in areas with pathogenic blood stagnation. Sha removes blood stagnation and promotes normal circulation. The patient often experiences immediate relief from pain, etc. The therapy is not painful and many people experience a pleasurable release of muscular tension during application and after. The technique produces skin redness, which dissipates in a few days.
Cupping:
Cupping is a therapy that works especially well for conditions such as arthritis and musculoskeletal pain. Small glass cups are placed over specific areas on the body. Cupping creates a vacuum which stimulates the circulation within the superficial muscle layers and encourages the flow of Qi and blood and the release of any local stagnation or toxins. The cups are left in place for 3-15 minutes. In some cases, the cup may be moved over areas while retaining the suction (called sliding cupping). The suction effect usually leaves a harmless red mark which fades over several days.
Electro Acupuncture:
Electro acupuncture is a powerful and effective treatment for pain management and rehabilitation. Electro acupuncture is the application of electrical microcurrents during the acupuncture treatment. The use of electro acupuncture can help relieve pain and speed treatment results.
Tuina (Chinese body work/massage):
Tuina uses a variety of hand techniques to encourage the healthy flow of Qi and blood, which facilitates changes in the physical and energetic systems of the body. It relieves muscle pain, inflammation, and tension and speeds the healing of injuries.
TDP/Mineral Wave Lamp:
The TDP lamp has a plate coated with mineral formation of 33 elements. When heated, the plate emits beneficial electromagnetic waves to specific body parts.
Moxibustion(Moxa):
Moxa involves the use of an herb, mainly artemisia vulgaris. Moxa is used in stick form or in small cones. Moxa is burned close to specific acupuncture points and provides a strong warming sensation. Moxibustion is highly effective in stimulating the immune system, promoting circulation, and relieving pain. When lit, Moxa burns slowly and provides a penetrating heat that enters the channels. Moxibustion is used for a wide array of disorders and is effective with many pain conditions. Redness may appear in the localized area for a few days but it is not painful. Moxa often has a relaxing effect.
Herbal Medicine:
Chinese herbs and formulas concentrate on treating the “root” or underlying condition. Herbs may be used to complement your acupuncture therapy and in contrast to many western medicines, generally have very few side-effects.
Topical Liniments:
To aid in the reduction of pain, inflammation or swelling and to speed healing, topical liniments may be utilized as part of your treatment.
TCM Nutritional Therapy:
The Chinese Medicine dietary system is very different from most western diets and nutritional therapies. Particular combinations of foods are matched to your diagnosis based on each food’s unique qualities and healing properties. I will be able to provide you with general eating guidelines to support your return to balance.