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Acupuncture
Acupuncture is based on the theory that the body has an energy force running throughout it, known as Qi (or Chi). Qi travels through the body along special pathways, called meridians. These pathways can become obstructed, deficient, or excessive. Any of these imbalances can create an irregular energy flow, causing illness.
During an acupuncture treatment, fine needles are inserted into the skin at specific points along the meridians. The effect of the needles is to restore the balance of energy and improve health by increasing the bodies’ ability to heal itself.
A key component of acupuncture is an intention to correct the root of a given physical or physiological problem, rather than just reducing or controlling symptoms. The goal of acupuncture is to rebalance the energetic systems, optimizing function on all levels.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is one of the oldest treatment methods in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Glass or plastic cups are used to create localized vacuum pressure. The suction from the cups can penetrate deep into muscle tissues, causing them to release harmful toxins. The toxins are then brought to the surface and eliminated.
Cupping therapy can stimulate the flow of blood and qi to an injured, tight, or sore area to promote the healing of that area. Added benefits of cupping therapy include triggering the lymphatic system, clearing the blood vessels and stretching and activating the skin.
Herbal Medicine
Chinese medicinal herbs are natural, time-tested remedies, made up of mainly plant and vegetable sources including leaves, flowers, twigs, stems, roots, tubers, rhizomes, and bark. Mineral and animal parts are also used to create balance in the body. Herbal products come in several different forms. These are raw or dried, powder, pills, tablets, and tea.
Most whole medicinal plants contain active elements and chemical components that balance any potential side effects. Since Chinese herbs are used in whole form, there are minimal side effects.
Chinese herbs treat the root cause of illness, not just the symptoms. An individualized formula of herbs is carefully selected to treat each person's immediate and long term problems.
Electrical Stimulation
Electro-acupuncture is the application of a pulsating electrical current to acupuncture needles. Acupuncture needles are inserted and attached to a small device that puts out a tiny electrical current. The current runs through the needles and stimulates the acupuncture points. The stimulation strengthens the circulation of qi and blood.
Electro-acupuncture is used with the same acupuncture points and the same number of treatments as manual acupuncture.
There is virtually no current transmitted through the body. Treatment with electro-acupuncture feels like a light pulse and is not painful or uncomfortable.
Gua sha
Gua sha is a therapy that involves the scraping of skin with a smooth-edged instrument or massage tool. The purpose is to stimulate the microcirculation of soft tissues, which increases blood flow and enhances healing. Gua sha may be used to treat muscle pain and can help break down scar tissue. It breaks up stagnant energy or qi, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine therapy that involves the burning of dried leaves from mugwort or wormwood plants, called moxa. The moxa is usually formed into a small cone or cigar-like shape when used.
By burning moxa on or very near the surface of the skin, it becomes a form of heat therapy. The intention is to warm and invigorate the flow of qi in the body and drive out certain pathogenic influences. It can be used to promote circulation over areas of chronic pain or muscle tension.