What are some other Chinese Medicine techniques besides acupuncture?
There are a variety of techniques used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Below are a few that are typically used in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance its effects:
Gua Sha: Also known as “spooning” or “coining” in English, Gua Sha literally means to “scrape away heat.” It is performed by applying pressurized strokes to the back using a specialized scraping instrument and is used for many ailments from muscle aches to fevers to digestive and gynecological issues.
Tui Na: A form of Chinese bodywork used in conjunction with acupuncture for a variety of musculoskeletal and organ-related issues.
Herbs: Herbal medicine is a very important modality of treatment in Chinese medicine. Commonly in china acupuncture was given to patients every day to treat not only their symptoms but the underlying problem. Unfortunately in the United States, due to schedules and financial constraints our patients are unable to do that. Herbal medicine becomes a great substitute. From over 5,000 substances derived from plant, animal, and mineral sources an unique formula can be created to address the individual's needs. This is important in both chronic and acute conditions so we can create a lasting permanent shift towards a healthier happier lifestyle.
Electro-Acupuncture: Acupuncture needles are used to conduct small electrical currents. This technique, often used in conjunction with acupuncture, has been proven to decrease pain, accelerate healing and significantly reduce inflammation, edema and swelling.
Moxibustion: A technique in which mugwort, a Chinese herb also known as Artemisia Vulgaris, is used to heat an acupuncture point, particularly in the treatment of debilitating conditions such as arthritis and pain. Moxa is usually rolled into a stick, lit, and held over specific areas of the body. It can also be placed onto the handle of an acupuncture needle for deeper penetration of heat.
Cupping: A glass or plastic cup is suctioned onto the body and kept in place for about 10 minutes to stimulate circulation, relieve swelling and enhance the acupuncture or electro-acupuncture.