Traditional Therapy

Tui Na - Chinese Medical Massage

What is Tui Na?
Tui Na (pronounced "twee - nah" / translated as "push pull") also know as acupressure or Chinese Medical Massage is one of five major therapeutic modalities of ancient and modern Chinese Medicine, the other four methods being Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition and Qi Gong.

Tui Na, being apart of Traditional Chinese Medicine, utilizes the same diagnostic techniques, energy points and meridians as those in acupuncture. Instead of needles, Tui Na applies deep pressure in addition to other techniques to stimulate the meridians. The meridian system is a complex network of energy pathways that support the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee" / Western equivalent - bioelectricity / Eastern terminology - "vital life force"). Meridians connect all of the internal organs and various tissue structures throughout the entire body.

Tui Na uses a variety of hand techniques and passive/active stretching to restore and correct anatomical muscular-skeletal interaction, joint disorder, neuro-muscular irregularities, to increase the circulation of Qi and Blood, to release toxins, facilitate healing and prevent further injury.

There are eight basic massage techniques that can be combined in a myriad number of ways therapeutically depending on the specific condition being treated.

Tui - Pushing
Na - Pulling or Dragging
An - Rapid & Rhythm-like Pressing
Tao - Strong Pinching Pressure
Nie - Kneading
Nien - Nipping, Pinching
Moa - Rubbing
Pai - Tapping

What types of conditions can Tui Na benefit?
Tui Na integrates techniques that are similar to Western and Asian massage, osteopathic, chiropractic, and Western physical therapy.

Tui Na is very effective in treating chronic pain associated with muscular-skeletal disorders such as sports injuries, muscle spasms, neck, shoulder and back pain, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, frozen shoulder, joint pain (including arthritis), and sciatica. It is also beneficial for chronic conditions such as headaches, migraine, tension, constipation, insomnia, and mental restlessness. Tui Na Massage relieves stress and induces a deep relaxation affecting the energetic, mental, emotional, and physical layers of the body promoting vitality and general overall well-being.

Using Tui Na as a preventative therapy.
Tui Na can be used as a preventative therapy to correct imbalances and restore harmony to the body diminishing signs and symptoms from developing into more serious ailments.
Additional treatment modalities typically combined with Tui Na massage are moxibustion (heat therapy) and cupping (suction therapy).

How do I dress for a Tui Na treatment?
Tui Na does not usually apply oils or use mechanical devices so it is not necessary to undress during a session. It is suggested to wear loose fitting clothing such as a jogging outfit or carry extra clothing that you can change into when you arrive for your Tui Na treatment.

Are you interested in learning Tui Na Medical Massage for health and wellness?
Learning Tui Na massage can prove to be an excellent form of self-healing. It is a safe and effective way to promote health and well-being for yourself and to share with others. If you are interested in learning Tui Na massage please use the contact information to obtain further details. Usually folks who are interested in learning will find a partner or a group of people that are interested in learning Tui Na together.