Services
Chinese medical treatment involves more than just acupuncture. Many people are unfamiliar with other, very effective therapies Chinese medicine has to offer. Here is an explanation of therapeutic services that are often a component of a typical treatment:
Moxibustion
Moxibustion, AKA "moxa" involves the burning of the Chinese herb mugwort (artemesia argyi) to warm up acupuncture points. The herb is very special in that it provides penetrating heat to stimulate acupuncture points, in a way that needles cannot. Moxa therapy can increase energy, improve circulation, warm the body, turn breech babies, stop bleeding, and boost the immune system. Its effect on the body is determined by which acupuncture points we choose to target.
Typically, the herb is rolled into a cigar like form, lighted, with the smoldering end held near the skin. Moxa can also be burned safely on the skin, or on the top of an inserted acupuncture needle.
Typically, the herb is rolled into a cigar like form, lighted, with the smoldering end held near the skin. Moxa can also be burned safely on the skin, or on the top of an inserted acupuncture needle.
Custom Chinese Herbs, Supplements
Chinese medicine has very advanced knowledge of how to use herbs to improve health. There are herbs that target many common health complaints including pain, digestive problems, infertility, insomnia, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and more. Chinese herbs may consist of plants (flowers, leaves, roots, rhizomes), mineral, and animal products. Herbal formulas consist of many herbs (usually 4 or more) to create a well-rounded formula to address your specific health complaints, with minimal side effects. Herbs are safe to take with some medications when prescribed by a licensed herbalist, and when taken as directed. If we decide to do Chinese herbs with your treatment, I will select a customized herbal formula during your visit to get you on the road to better health.
Gua Sha (pronounced "gwah shah")
Gua sha is an ancient Chinese medical modality that involves moving a flat object (traditionally a coin or spoon) across the skin. This action draws "stuck" blood towards the surface of the skin, where it can be carried away and replaced fresh circulating blood. This increases the circulation through the area, reducing or eliminating the pain. It can greatly reduce chronic stiffness and pain caused from old injuries or overuse of muscles.
Cupping
Small round glass cups are used to create suction on the skin. It can be used to help increase circulation to certain areas of the body, or to help move “stuck blood” that is preventing free circulation and causing reduced range of motion and pain. This therapy can be used for chronic or acute pain, or for helping recover from a cold or flu.