What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been used for thousands of years in China and other parts of Asia. It is based on the principles of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, which are believed to govern the natural world and the human body. TCM includes various modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary therapy. These modalities are used to balance the body’s energy and promote healing. Acupuncture, in particular, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and reduce pain. Chinese herbs are also commonly used in TCM to promote health and treat a wide range of conditions. Cupping and Gua sha are also commonly used in TCM as physical therapy. It helps to improve blood flow, relieve pain and tension, and promote healing.

How Does Chinese Medicine Diagnose the Body?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses a unique diagnostic system that is different from Western medicine. Two of the most important diagnostic tools in TCM are tongue and pulse diagnosis. The tongue is examined for its color, shape, coating, and moisture, which can provide insight into the overall health of the body. The pulse is felt at several different positions on the wrist, and the practitioner assesses its strength, rhythm, and quality, which can indicate the state of the internal organs and systems.

Together, tongue and pulse diagnosis provide a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition and are used to derive a TCM diagnosis. This diagnosis is then used to plan a treatment plan that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and dietary therapy.

Acupuncture is the most renowned modality of TCM, and it is used to balance the body’s energy, relieve pain, and promote healing. Chinese herbal medicine is another important modality in TCM that uses herbal combinations or formulas to strengthen and support organ system function. Herbal therapy is often used in combination with acupuncture and other therapies for best results.

What is Cupping?

Cupping is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves the use of suction cups to apply pressure to specific points on the body. The cups are typically made of glass, bamboo, or silicone and are applied to the skin after it has been heated or treated with an oil. This creates a suction effect that draws the skin up into the cup.

Cupping is believed to stimulate the flow of blood and promote healing. It can also break up obstructions, such as tight muscle knots, and create an avenue for toxins to be drawn out of the body. It is used to relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce muscle tension. It is particularly effective for conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and tension headaches.

Cupping therapy can be used as a standalone treatment, or it can be used in combination with other therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and Gua sha. When used in combination with other therapies, it is believed to provide an even greater therapeutic effect.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves the use of tools to scrape or rub the skin repeatedly. The tools used in Gua Sha are typically made of jade or other natural materials such as rose quartz or stainless steel. They are used with liniments applied on the skin.

Gua Sha is believed to activate blood circulation, dissipate blood stasis, and promote healing. It is used to relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce muscle tension. It is particularly effective for conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and tension headaches.

The technique of Gua Sha is similar to cupping, but instead of using suction cups to apply pressure to the skin, the practitioner uses a tool to scrape or rub the skin. This creates a similar effect of drawing the skin up, but it also creates microtrauma which in turns create a healing response.

Gua Sha can be used as a standalone treatment or it can be used in combination with other therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and cupping. When used in combination with other therapies, it is believed to provide an even greater therapeutic effect.

How Does Treatment work with Chinese Medicine?

At Ananta Health, Chinese Medicine treatment is tailored to the individual patient. Dr. Risk creates a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s clinical findings and specific needs. The treatment plan may include a combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and dietary therapy. The BioScan SRT assessment is also used to identify the patient’s specific health issues and to monitor the progress of treatment. In addition to these therapies, supplements and diet and lifestyle recommendations may also be included to ensure that patients achieve and maintain optimal wellness and balance. With the combination of different modalities, the treatment at Ananta Health is comprehensive and effective.