Chinese Medicine

Chinese Medicine includes much more than just acupuncture. When used in conjunction with acupuncture, these therapies help patients heal faster.

Chinese Herbs: Herbal medicine is commonly used as a complement to acupuncture.  It involves using natural plants and other substances and applying their properties to Chinese medical theory. We prescribe herbs in pill or granule form and also commonly recommend topical liniments, oils and plasters.

Moxibustion: Moxa, also known as mugwort, is an herb that is used for  additional healing benefit during treatment.  It is often used for women’s health issues, treatment of shingles and pain management.

Electro-acupuncture: Electro-acupuncture is performed by connecting a small electric current to the acupuncture needles, causing additional stimulation.  Electro-acupuncture is useful for post-stroke therapy and treating pain and injuries.

Cupping: Cupping is performed by placing a small flame in a glass cup in order to create a vacuum, then removing the flame and placing the cup on the body.   This vacuum creates suction on the skin and muscle layer.  The cups are either left stationary or moved around on the skin for 5 minutes or so, and usually leave a superficial bruise behind.  Cupping helps to treat asthma, common colds, coughs and back pain.

Ear seeds: Ear acupuncture points may be stimulated for a longer period of time by using ear seeds.  Small seeds are held into place on the ear with a piece of tape and are left on to continue treatment at home.

Tuina massage: Tuina is an oriental style of massage that uses a combination of deep tissue massage and stretches to treat musculoskeletal  disorders.