Acupuncture is a popular term that one hears often in complementary/alternative medicine. Acupuncture and acupressure are ancient Chinese medicinal practices dating back over 4,000 years. There are more than 350 acupuncture points that are distributed on 14 meridians or invisible pathways along the boy. Acupuncture and acupressure are techniques that stimulate these acupuncture points to influence physiological function according to Western medicine and to free up blockage of Qi (energy) in the meridians according to Chinese medicine. Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair-thin needles at various acupuncture points, and acupressure utilizes finger pressure massage at these same points.

Acupuncture has minimal side effects since it uses one’s own body in the healing process. The acupuncturist and the tools used during treatment are facilitators in guiding your body back to its healthy and balanced state. An old Chinese proverb states, “Where there is blockage, there is pain. Where there is no blockage, there is no pain.” The acupuncturist helps the patient identify obstacles in his body and assist in removing these obstacles. The patient may observe local bruising, mild discomfort around the treated area, brief generalized fatigue, tingling and/or numbness.

Tui Na (which literally means “push grab”) is a form of traditional Chinese massage used to treat injuries, joint and muscle problems and internal disorders. Practiced by healers and martial artists for thousands of years, tui na massage increases energy flow and blood circulation throughout the entire body, removing blockages and stagnations caused by injuries, exercise and/or aging. Patients have been known to prevent illness, recover quickly from fatigue and aches, and find relief from stress and physical tension through tui na massage.