Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine is an ancient medical system that has been around for thousands of years. Initially, this was a common practice only in China but is now practiced all over the world. This medical system revolves around the theory or perception of the human body as a microcosm of the universe and that illness is treated after pattern differentiation (determining the location of a disharmony in one of the body’s elements or systems). A complete diagnosis is determined after examining pulse and tongue and other methods. This system is focused on treating the root causes of the diseases instead of merely on the symptoms of the disease. This way, the re-occurrence of the illness is reduced drastically.

Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine

The main principles of traditional Chinese medicine are that the human body is made up from five elements i.e. earth, fire, wood, water and metal. An imbalance in any of these elements leads to illness. Proper balance of these elements can be achieved through maintaining the energy flow in the body.  The flow of energy goes through the pathways that lie along the body, known as meridians.  This flow of energy is known as chi. In case these pathways are blocked or disrupted, different disorders are caused in the body.  The proper coordination and balance in the elements, body organs and energy result in a healthy body and mind.

Methods and Techniques of Traditional Chinese Medicine

There are different methods and techniques that are adopted by traditional Chinese medicine to maintain the balance in the body. Each method follows the main principles of the pathways of energy but each has a different procedure. The different methods and techniques are discussed below:

1.     Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the method of inserting pointed needles in certain points on the body. These points are known as acupuncture points and are situated on meridians. By inserting needles on these points, the tension in the muscles and stimulates blood flow. This point activation contracts and relaxes the muscles which remove blockage in the pathways. Learn more

2.     Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is done by using plastic cups, vacuum or suction on the points where the pain exists. The blood circulation is increased in the area where the therapy is done as it generates heat. This therapy is mostly done on the back and provides relaxation to the body. Learn more.

3.     Moxibustion

Similar to cupping therapy, Moxibustion utilizes moxa wool instead of the plastic cups. The wool comes from Mugwort, which is an herbal plant. The moxa wool stick is heated and placed at a certain distance away from the body point. The fumes of the stick provide heat to the affected area which provides relaxation to the individual. Learn more

4.     Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine is widely regarded by many as the best form of medication. According to Chinese medication principles, all herbs have different temperatures which include neutral, warm, cool, cold and hot. The temperature of the body is determined and the suitable herb is than recommended as a treatment. Learn more

5.     Tai Nu Massage

This massage focuses on activating the acupressure points by pressing, stretching and rubbing. There is no need to apply grease or oil on the body as the treatment is solely based on the techniques of massaging.

At our acupuncture clinic, Dr. Andrea Schmutz utilizes all the above modalities of TCM to bring health, wellness and vitality to each patient. Please give us a call at 786-537-7022 to learn more and to get started today! We do accept insurance.