Treatment Modalities

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine modality that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points. These points are believed to be connected by pathways or channels, called meridians, that allow the flow of energy, or Qi, throughout the body.

The goal of acupuncture is to balance the flow of Qi, which can become blocked or disrupted, leading to pain, illness, or other health issues. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, an acupuncturist can help restore the proper flow of Qi, promoting healing and wellness.

During an acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will perform a thorough assessment of your health history and current symptoms to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. You will lie down on a comfortable table, and the acupuncturist will insert the needles into the acupuncture points identified in your treatment plan. You may feel a slight sensation as the needles are inserted, but the process is generally painless.

Once the needles are in place, you will rest for a period of time, typically 20-30 minutes, while the needles stimulate the acupuncture points. The acupuncturist may also use other techniques, such as heat therapy or electrical stimulation, to enhance the effects of the treatment.

Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide range of health issues, including pain, stress and anxiety, digestive disorders, women's health issues, respiratory problems, and more. It is generally a safe and effective modality when performed by a licensed and trained acupuncturist.

Tui na is a form of Chinese therapeutic massage that involves the use of various techniques, including kneading, rolling, pressing, and stretching of muscles and joints. Tui na is often used in conjunction with other Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, to promote healing and balance in the body.

Tui na practitioners use their hands, fingers, and elbows to apply pressure to specific areas of the body, similar to how acupuncturists target acupuncture points. This helps to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body and promote blood circulation, which can relieve pain and tension.

Tui na can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal pain and injuries, digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and stress-related disorders. It is also used as a preventative therapy to promote overall health and wellbeing.

Tui na is typically performed with the patient lying down or sitting, and the practitioner may use various tools, such as hot packs or herbal ointments, to enhance the effects of the massage. Like other Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities, tui na is based on the concept of Yin and Yang and aims to restore balance and harmony to the body.

Dietary therapy is a modality of Chinese medicine that focuses on the use of food as a form of medicine to promote health and treat diseases. Practitioners of this modality believe that the food we eat has a direct impact on our health and well-being, and that certain foods can be used to prevent or alleviate various health conditions.

Dietary therapy is based on the principles of yin and yang, the five elements, and the energy of different foods, as well as the individual needs of each person based on their constitution, health history, and current symptoms. Practitioners work with patients to create personalized nutrition plans that may include recommendations for specific foods, cooking methods, and eating habits.

The goal of dietary therapy is to promote overall health and balance in the body by providing the necessary nutrients and energy needed to support the body's natural healing mechanisms. It may be used alongside other modalities of Chinese medicine, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, to enhance their effectiveness.

Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine modality that involves the use of special cups placed on the skin to create suction. The cups are typically made of glass, plastic, or bamboo and come in various sizes.

During a cupping session, the cups are placed on specific points on the body and a vacuum is created either by heating the cup or using a pump. This creates a suction effect that draws the skin and underlying tissue into the cup, promoting blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and the release of tension in the muscles and fascia.

Cupping is often used to treat musculoskeletal pain and tension, respiratory issues, and digestive problems. It can also be used to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The marks left by cupping can vary from light redness to deeper bruises, depending on the intensity of the suction and the duration of the treatment.

Cupping is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner, but it may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as skin sensitivities, blood disorders, or pregnancy, should consult with their healthcare provider before trying cupping.

Qigong is a holistic Chinese practice that involves physical movements, meditation, and breathing techniques to promote the flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body. The practice of Qigong aims to cultivate Qi and use it to promote healing and balance in the body, mind, and spirit.

Qigong consists of various exercises and movements that are designed to stretch and strengthen the body, improve balance and coordination, and promote relaxation and mental clarity. These exercises are often performed slowly and gently, with a focus on deep breathing and mindful awareness.

There are many different styles of Qigong, including medical Qigong, martial Qigong, and spiritual Qigong. Medical Qigong is often used as a complementary therapy for a variety of health conditions, including chronic pain, respiratory problems, and stress-related disorders. Martial Qigong is focused on developing strength, agility, and flexibility for martial arts practice, while spiritual Qigong aims to cultivate spiritual awareness and connection.

Qigong is often practiced outdoors in parks or other natural settings, and can also be practiced indoors. The practice of Qigong is often used in conjunction with other Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, to promote overall health and wellbeing.

Medical Qigong is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine that uses Qi Gong exercises, breathing techniques, and meditations to promote healing and balance in the body, mind, and spirit. It focuses specifically on the use of Qigong exercises and meditations for healing purposes.

Medical Qigong practitioners use their knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory to diagnose and treat a wide range of health issues. They work to balance the patient's Qi and restore harmony to the body's systems. Medical Qigong may be used in conjunction with other TCM modalities such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, or on its own.

During a Medical Qigong session, the practitioner may use a variety of techniques such as meditation, visualization, and sound healing, along with specific Qigong exercises tailored to the individual's needs. These exercises are designed to help the patient release physical and emotional blockages, improve circulation and energy flow, and restore balance and harmony to the body.

Medical Qigong can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, stress-related disorders, respiratory problems, digestive issues, and more. It is often used as a complementary therapy alongside Western medicine, and can help patients achieve a greater sense of relaxation, wellbeing, and inner peace.

Chinese herbal medicine is a traditional Chinese medicine modality that involves the use of natural herbs, minerals, and other substances to promote healing and wellness. These substances are often combined into formulas, with each formula tailored to address a specific health issue or set of symptoms.

In Chinese herbal medicine, the focus is on restoring balance and harmony to the body by addressing the root cause of health issues rather than just treating symptoms. The herbs used in Chinese herbal medicine have been selected and refined over thousands of years based on their therapeutic properties and safety.

Before prescribing an herbal formula, a Chinese herbalist will perform a thorough assessment of your health history and current symptoms to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. They may also take into account your constitution and any underlying imbalances that may be contributing to your health issues.

The herbal formulas may come in various forms, such as teas, powders, capsules, or tablets, and may be taken in combination with other therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, or dietary changes.

Chinese herbal medicine can be used to treat a wide range of health issues, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, women's health issues, skin conditions, and more. It is generally considered safe and effective when prescribed by a licensed and trained herbalist and used as directed. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking, as they may interact with other medications or have potential side effects.