Oriental Medicine

Oriental Medicine is based on the concept that the human body is a small universe with a set of interconnected systems. These systems usually work in balance to maintain good health. The basic belief is that the human body has a highly effective system to find illness and can usually heal problems by itself. The goal of Oriental Medicine intervention is to assist the normal self-healing function of body, not to interfering or over power it. Herbs are used to help stimulate the body’s natural maintenance systems.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles into "acupuncture points" on the body by trained practitioners. Modern acupuncturists use disposable stainless steel needles of very fine diameter (approximately .015"). The upper third of these needles is wound with a thicker wire (typically bronze) to stiffen the needle, provide a handle for the acupuncturist to grasp while inserting the needle, and also provide a surface to which dried mugwort will more easily adhere. Oriental Medicine theory states that acupuncture works by balancing the flow of Qi "vital energy" in the body. Pain or illnesses are considered to be accumulations or deficiencies of Qi. Pain is considered to indicate blockage or stagnation of the flow of Qi. An acupuncturist decides which points to treat by taking a detailed medical history and traditional diagnostic skills such as observation of the left and right wrist pulses.

Cupping

Cupping involves the placement of glass, plastic, or bamboo cups on the skin to create a vacuum. The air within the cup is heated just prior to application to produce suction. This helps in activating the underlying tissues. Cupping is a traditional form of pain and healing therapy that stimulates circulation through the tissues. The therapy is used in the treatment of respiratory diseases such as the common cold, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Cupping is also used to treat back, neck, shoulder, and other musculoskeletal pain.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a therapy using moxa, or the herb mugwort. The mugwort is specially prepared. The moxa is ground up to a fluff or processed further into a stick. The moxa can be burned attached to acupuncture needles, or burned directly on or near the skin. Practitioners use moxa to create warmth. The intent is to stimulate circulation and produce a smoother flow of blood and qi. Moxibustion is considered to be especially effective in the treatment of chronic problems and gerontology.

Tui na

Tui na uses traction, massage and manipulation in conjunction with acupressure and is used for both acute or chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as certain non-musculoskeletal conditions. It is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine. Tui na is taught in acupuncture schools as part of formal training in Oriental medicine.

Qigong

Qigong relies on the traditional Chinese belief that the body has an energy field generated and maintained by the natural respiration of the body, known as Qi. Qi means breath or to breathe in Mandarin Chinese, and by extension the energy produced by breathing that keeps us alive; gong means work or technique. Qigong is then "breath work" or the art of managing the breath to achieve and maintain good health. Qigong is often experienced as a set of breathing and movement exercises. Qigong offers multiple avenues to health with movement meditation for a clearer mind, breath work for stress reduction and improved muscle tone of exercise.