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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture

TCM Acupuncture

TCM Acupuncture is a proven medical treatment whose use dates back thousands of years. It is based on the theory that health depends upon the delicate balance and natural flow of qi (pronounced chi, meaning “energy”) throughout the body. Any disturbance, aggravation or blockage in the flow of the qi along the electromagnetic pathways or meridians results in emotional/mental distress and/or physical illness or pain. By stimulating acupuncture points at various, and often seemingly unrelated locations, through the use of various methods including needling (acupuncture), manual pressure (acupressure), electric stimulation, heat (moxa), and/or cupping the acupuncturist seeks to restore balance and correct the blockage, aggravation, or flow of energy thereby restoring health and wellbeing. This method of healing has been used for thousands of years with proven and often profound results.

Acupuncture is so much more than an exceptional pain management therapy. The uses for acupuncture are as varied as human conditions themselves. The effectiveness of Acupuncture is well proven with the World Health Organization listing almost fifty different conditions that can be effectively treated by acupuncture.

Traditionally and most often acupuncture is performed through the insertion of very fine sterile, disposable needles into specific points along the energy meridians or electromagnetic channels of the body. However alternate methods can be used instead of, or in conjunction with, traditional needling; they include acupressure, cupping, electrical stimulation, herbal/topical application, heat, light, magnets and lasers. Other very effective techniques within the scope of TCM acupuncture include Tuina (TCM massage), Cupping, Gua Sha (also known as coining or scraping), Qi Gong/Tai Chi. Body, head, ear and hand points can be used within an acupuncture treatment either exclusively or in combination with each other.

At Green River Natural Health we also offer an innovative treatments such as Homeosiniatry. Homeosiniatry is a hybrid treatment that combines homeopathic medicine with acupuncture and is only offered by qualified professionals who have professional training and experience in both health disciplines. Other combination therapies include acupuncture treatment in conjunction with Craniosacral therapy; this dual treatment method is extremely effective in addressing conditions such as headaches, chronic neck tension, vertigo, tinnitus, post concussive syndrome and TMJ.

Other TCM Modalities:

Cupping

Cupping is a modality traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine that has gained popularity with many other health disciplines in recent years.  Specialized cups (made of glass, plastic or silicone) are placed on the skin either to create suction which, through proper placement on acupuncture points or through the manipulation along meridians or anatomical structures promotes improved flow of energy (Qi), circulation, breaks up congestion/inflammation/adhesions, and stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

Cupping can produce a flushed or even darker temporary discoloration of the skin however this affect is most often very temporary and is not harmful in and of itself.

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Gua Sha

Gua Sha (also known as coining or scraping) enlists the use of various shaped hand tools typically made out of jade or other stone to lightly scrape the skin using specific TCM techniques to relieve pain, break down scar tissue and adhesions in connective tissue, and to improve joint mobility. This technique is also used to move “Qi” and improve blood and/or fluid stagnation thereby aiding in circulation and lymph drainage. Gua Sha has also been found effective in addressing in lung problems, headaches, and repetitive strain injuries.

Woman receiving gua sha acupuncture treatment on back

Tuina

Tuina is traditional Chinese massage. Tuina, through the application of various TCM  massage techniques, targets acupuncture points, meridian pathways as well as “ouch” points and other tense and painful areas of the body. Tuina works to relieve pressure, inflammation, reduce pain, stimulate circulation and promote balance and relaxation. Traditional herbal and essential oil formulas are often used as part of Tuina treatments to enhance healing and a sense of wellbeing.

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