What is Acupuncture:

Acupuncture is a form of treatment that stimulates the body’s healing response. Chinese medicine theory is based on the concept of qi, or vital energy, which circulates throughout the body along specific pathways called meridians. When qi flows freely physical and emotional health is maintained. If there is a blockage to the flow of qi, there will be a disruption in health subsequently, resulting in pain and illness.

There are specific points along the meridians where the qi is most accessible. Stimulation of these points with the use of very thin sterile needles restores proper flow. In doing so, balance is achieved so that the body can heal itself.

Cupping:

A technique that uses heated glass cups as suction devices that are placed on the skin along meridians to stimulate the flow of energy (Qi) and blood. Cups are either moved along the muscle or kept stationary depending on the ailment. Cupping is frequently used to alleviate pain, treat respiratory conditions, and to calm the nervous system.

Conditions that respond well to cupping include, but are not limited to, neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, stiff muscles, bronchitis, pneumonia, common cold, headaches, and stress.

 

Gua Sha:

Sometimes referred to as “scrapping,” involves repeatedly rubbing a smooth object over a particular area of the body or along a meridian. Research has shown that gua sha has an anti-inflammatory effect and supports the immune system. It is commonly used for pain, muscle stiffness, fever, and chills as well as other conditions.

 

 

 

Moxibustion:

A warming technique that involves burning of the herb mugwort either directly or indirectly on the body. This form of heat therapy is usually applied to specific points to promote healing, support the immune system, stimulate circulation, and alleviate pain (especially when worsened by cold conditions).

 

 

 

 

Tui Na:

A form of Chinese massage comprised of multiple techniques that is usually used in conjunction with acupuncture, cupping, and/or moxibustion.

 

 

 

 

Auricular Acupuncture:

A microsystem of the body located on the ear that is used to diagnosis and treat health conditions in other areas of the body. Auricular acupuncture is most known for its treatment of addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

 

 

 

 

Chinese Herbal Therapy:

Chinese herbs work synergistically with acupuncture to stimulate the body’s healing response. They are safe and have minimal side effects when prescribed by a trained herbalist. Chinese herbs are combined in classical formulas and/or custom tailored for an individual’s diagnosis and condition. They come in raw, granule and pill form. Only reputable sources are used.