WHAT IS TCM ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture has been recognised for centuries in China for its many health benefits. Even western Doctors are now realising the potential of this holistic approach to health and are using it in their practices. Dr Li offers acupuncture in the Traditional Chinese Medicine method.

The philosophy behind acupuncture is that the body holds many energy lines (Qi) otherwise known as meridians that flow throughout the body to help balance our health. If one or more of these lines of flow is inhibited then our healthy balance may be out. Acupuncture uses fine needles inserted into various points of the body that help to increase the flow (Qi) once again to promote optimal health.

A strange feeling (like a dull ache) sometimes develops at the point (considered to be a good therapeutic sign) but the needles are so fine that people having treatment for the first time are pleasantly surprised, finding the treatment to be very relaxing, therapeutic and in many cases relatively pain free.

The flow (Qi) can be put out of balance through a number of things that we experience throughout life be it emotional, physical or spiritual. Our acupuncturist will listen to your concerns and help balance and support your body accordingly. At times she may combine acupuncture with Tui Na 9Chinese massage) to further increase your health.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR TCM ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT

On arrival to the clinic you will be asked to fill out a medical intake form, outlining your personal details, any existing or past medical conditions and what you are looking to get from your treatment with Dr Li. Dr Li will chat to you briefly about your reasons for coming, she will carry out the traditional TCM tongue, face and pulse diagnosis to assess what is the best approach and where is the best place to place the needles. You will be recommended how many sessions, if necessary, you will require and how frequently you will be required to come back.

Chinese Herbal Medicine is part of a larger health treatment known as Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is one of the best known herbal medicine systems of the world, with its roots firmly planted in history going back to the 3rd century BC.

Chinese herbal medicines are mainly plant based and come packaged as powders, pastes, lotions or tablets, depending on the herb and its intended use. Different herbs have different properties and can balance particular parts of the body.

Chinese herbs are very safe when prescribed correctly by a properly trained practitioner.

PATIENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING MAY BENEFIT FROM CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE:

• Gastro-intestinal disorders, including IBS, chronic constipation and ulcerative colitis
• Skin disorders: Such as eczema and psoriasis or acne
• Chronic fatigue syndromes
• Gynaecological conditions, including pre-menstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhoea, endometriosis, fertility issues
• Hepatic (liver) disorders
• Cardiovascular disorders
• Psychological problems (e.g. depression, anxiety, stress)
• Respiratory conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, and chronic coughs, allergic and perennial rhinitis and sinusitis.

Tui na is a fantastic , powerful, Chinese medical massage that uses the arms, hands, fingers, elbows and knees to not only relive muscle tension but to also stimulate the body’s meridians and acupressure points encouraging a healthy flow of blood and energy (Qi) around the body. The techniques used have a powerful effect on the body. It aims rebalance the functions of the body and bring your health back into balance building up your body’s immunity, so that disease has less chance of manifesting.

Tui na may be used for a whole range of ailments ranging from musculoskeletal injuries to many other kinds of health complaints such as joint pain, trapped nerves, injured tendons, lack of energy, digestive complaints, menstrual issues and any symptoms caused by stress or emotional problems. Tuina may even used alongside weight loss programs.

You can receive the treatment either seated or laying, whichever is the most comfortable. The massage techniques are either applied on top of loose clothing or on bare skin, herbal rubs can be used in conjunction with a Traditional Chinese Massage treatment.

The Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment is based on the principles of Oriental Medicine and involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into particular areas of the face, ears, neck, hands, trunk, and legs along channels or meridians of energy called Qi (pronounced chee). Specific points are chosen to manipulate the movement of energy in the body according to the individual’s needs.

Cosmetic Acupuncture improves circulation of blood to the face increasing the amount of nutrients fed to the skin. It is also said to increase the body’s own ability to produce collagen, collagen helps keep the skin looking young.

Generally, it consists of 15 treatments. The effects become most noticeable and lasting near the end. Each person responds differently, depending on his or her needs. Following the initial course of treatment, maintenance sessions can prolong the results.

Cosmetic Acupuncture is a natural alternative to Botox and can sometimes be referred to as an Acupuncture Facelift. However, it is much more than just a cosmetic procedure, it is a full revitalisation process.

Cupping therapy is the method of using glass or plastic cups to create localized pressure by a vacuum. The Chinese have been doing Cupping since ancient times by using heat inside glass or bamboo cups. Cupping therapy has been found in ancient records dating back 3500 years and its uses now range for many different treatments and applications.

Ancient Chinese medicine have believed that the body contains "Meridians". These meridians are pathways in the body which the energy of life called Qi (“chi”) flows through. It flows through every body part, tissue, and organ. Cupping therapy is mainly performed on one’s back because there are five meridians on your back. When these meridians are opened, the internal energy is able to flow through the whole body.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN A CUPPING THERAPY TREATMENT

In a typical cupping session, glass cups are warmed using a cotton ball or other flammable substance, which is soaked in alcohol, let, then placed inside the cup. Burning a substance inside the cup removes all the oxygen, which creates a vacuum. The vacuum created by the lack of oxygen anchors the cup to the skin and pulls it upward on the inside of the glass as the air inside the jar cools.

Depending on the condition being treated, the cups will be left in place from 5 to 10 minutes. Several cups may be placed on a patient’s body at the same time.