What Is Acupuncture And Traditional Chinese Medicine?


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raditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long and rich history, and is the third oldest form of medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine includes: Acupuncture, Herbal medicine,Tui-na(therapeutic massage), Diet, as well as meditational techniques to heal the body. The fact that TCM has existed for thousands of years, and is still used today is a testament to its value as a form of healthcare.


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Herbal Medicines form the very foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  The Chinese Medicine practitioner has hundreds of medicinal herbs at their disposal, which have been used and tested over many hundreds of years. The application of these herbs includes diagnostics and pharmacology, and is specifically tailored to the needs of the individual patient.  A very popular tenant of Chinese Medicine is the belief of treating the patients underlying issue or the root of the problem.  The branch of symptoms displayed in the patient are the outward manifestations of a deeper underlying cause.  Once the root cause of illness is being treated the "branches" will invariably clear up.



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Acupuncture is a technique rooted in this vast traditional medical system.  It's origins date back to nearly 2,000 years ago, developing in the Han Dynasty. Historically, physicians used acupuncture to balance the bodies natural energy system. When this system was out of balance, patients would experience "Dis-ease". Today in Modern China, as well as in the west Acupuncture is used as an integrative medicine or stand-alone to treat a wide-range of issues. The technique involves placing tiny non-invasive needles that are inserted into specific anatomical points scattered throughout the body.  By placing acupuncture needles into specific acupuncture points you initiate a naturally-occuring healing response. Receiving acupuncture encourages the body to promote natural healing and to improve function. 


 



 

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Cupping is a traditional technique that has been used in the east for hundreds of years. It relieves inflammation and improves circulation to an area. This technique works by creating a vacuum between the cupping glass and the skin. The cup creates suction on the skin, stimulating the area, and increasing blood flow.