Other Methods in TCM

Cupping

A technique which traditionally uses glass cups or bowls, placed on the body in a fashion that generates a vacuum within the cup, over the skin. This technique draws toxins out of the tissues, and can be especially useful in treating respiratory conditions, and muscle pains. While cupping is done traditionally using a flame to consume the air in the cup and create a vaccuum, modern methods utilise small pumps to achieve the same effect with out the risk of burns.

Moxabustion

The use of an herb called mugwort or artemisia to direct heat toward the body. By lighting varous forms of the herb (compressed like a cigar, or loose moxa "punk"), the heat is directed into acupuncture points and body surfaces. The moxa contains yang energy which is useful in tonifying some deficient conditions, promoting the movement of qi and blood in the channels, and relieving pain.

TDP Lamp

In the clinic we occasionally use TDP (Special Electro-magnetic Spectrum, from the Chinese Te-ding Dian-ci-bo Pu) lamp in place of moxabustion, although moxa still is recognized especially for it's penetrating heat. The TDP lamp warms the body through EM frequencies.  It uses a special emission plate that is coated with a solution of 33 minerals. It uses far-infrared energy for the heat therapy, as far-infrared energy is proven to be best absorbed by the human body.

Gua-Sha

This technique traditionally involves a slice of horn, which is used to stimulatie the skin in a way that draws toxins out of tissues. This modality can relieve muscle tension, as well as stimulate the release chronic conditions.

Qi gong instruction

Qi gong, or the practice of manipulation of qi, is useful in the treatment of many conditions and in health maintenance and longevity. qi gong can be used as an umbrella term referring to a wide number of practices, from yoga, to meditation, tai chi, and hundreds of traditional qi gong methods. The practice of qi gong generally will improve overall health. many elaborate and sophisticated teachings exist, but simple exercises in breathing, concentration, and visualisation can also have profound results.

Dietary counsel

Traditionally a foundational aspect of TCM, nutrition and diet consideration can be an integral part in the treatment of many conditions. Food being one of the main sources of our daily energy, eating the right foods can certainly be employed as a powerful form of medicine