Acupuncture & Traditional
Chinese Medicine Modalities
Acupuncture is the primary modality used within Traditional Chinese Medicine. It uses hair-like needles to stimulate the energy (Qi) within the body. The points are selected based on their unique function which enables balancing, healing and movement of Qi within the body. Acupuncture is known to be deeply relaxing and profound in making shifts to wellness.
Here are a few examples of conditions that acupuncture can help to treat:
General health
weight loss or gain, sleep disorders,
energy and fatigue, blood pressure
Immune system support
common cold, flu, increased susceptibility to illnessRespiratory illness
shortness of breath, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, sinusitisDigestive conditions
bloating, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Gynecological conditions
infertility, menstrual disorders, pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), painful menstruation, miscarriage, menopausal symptomsAcute pain
sports-related or other injuriesChronic pain
frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, low back pain, pain of any joint (jaw, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle), fibromyalgia, arthritis, sciatica, disorders of spinal discs, headaches, plantar fasciitis, muscle tension, muscle pain
Neurological conditions neuropathy, numbness, tingling, stroke recovery,
bell’s palsy, multiple sclerosisEyes and ears
dry eyes, itchy eyes, floaters in vision, tinnitusEmotional conditions
stress, anxiety, depressionAddictions
smoking cessation, drugs and alcohol withdrawal, sugar cravingsTreatment or drug side effects
helps to mitigate side effects related to chemotherapy and radiation therapy as well as other pharmaceutical drugs
Supportive Modalities in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Cupping
Cupping is a “suction-cup” method used to break up fascial adhesions, stubborn phlegm in the lungs, and other obstructions that can lead to pain. It helps to draw the muscle and connective tissue away from bone, creating space for increased blood flow and healing. This can provide relief from pain, illness and flu, and stubborn states of cold in the body.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha (scraping therapy) is used to regenerate blood flow in tight and restricted areas. It breaks up superficial capillaries to jump start the body’s natural healing mechanism. It is used to treat musculoskeletal concerns.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is an ancient modality involving the burning of the herb mugwort over acupuncture points. By doing this, heat can deeply penetrate the body (this type of heat is similar to that produced in an infrared sauna) to soothe sore muscles and painful joints, encourage proper circulation, strengthen blood and Qi in the body, and maintain general health.