Part of my position here at CCW is to create a heightened sense of awareness surrounding all the services our practitioners offer in office etc. One of these therapies that seems to fly suprisingly low "under the radar" is Tuina, an Oriental Massage practiced by both our acupuncturists (Brian Kramer L.Ac and Andre Tse L.Ac). I myself indulge in this amazing service once a week so I thought i'd let you lovely folks in on the details. Here is a brief explanation of Tuina written up by one of our acupuncturists...
Background:
Pronounced: Tway Naah
Also called “An Mo” meaning to Push and Grasp.
One of the oldest forms of massage and physical therapy in the world dating back 15,000 years ago and recorded in Classic Chinese texts early as 100BC.
Tuina in China is a specific modality of Chinese medicine and is taught separate from acupuncture and herbal medicine.
What:
Based on TCM theory of channels and collaterals, qi, blood, yin and yang.
After a condition is diagnosed from a TCM standpoint, Tuina can be used to treat the underlying condition using acupressure, trigger point therapy, manual massage techniques, and gentle stretches.
The goals of tuina are to re-establish the correct balance of energy in the body, to correct the positioning of the musculo-skeletal system, to relieve muscle spasms, and to promote the recovery of muscles.
Tuina also includes Reflexology (foot massage) and pediatric tuina.
Tuina is not used for conditions involving compound fractures, external wounds, open sores or lesions, phlebitis, or with infectious conditions such as hepatitis. Tuina should not be performed on the abdominal portion of a woman in menstrual or pregnant periods, and it is not used for treatment of malignant tumors or tuberculosis.
How:
Various hand, finger, forearm, elbow, techniques are used as well as gentle stretches and traction.
Tuina increases blood circulation and temperature locally to promote recovery, increases the pain threshold, lengthens the muscles, separates adhesions, and certain techniques of tuina can change the position of bones and joints.
Often times, the practitioner may use linamints, heat therapy, salves, and herbal patches during treatments to accelerate the healing process.
Most acute problems generally take 3-6 treatments to treat and chronic or persistent problems may need a more preventative approach such as 1-2 times a month.
Why?
Tuina is an effective and safe alternative to acupuncture, and is especially beneficial for those with a fear of needles.
Tuina can be used for constitutional treatments for those that want preventative treatment and/or for generalized whole-body stress reduction. Tuina treats various musculo-skeletal conditions such as frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and carpel tunnel, etc., as well as treats internal diseases such as stress, headaches, and digestive problems.
Just call the office with more questions or if you'd like to set up a session!
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