What are some other Chinese Medicine techniques besides Acupuncture?

There are a variety of techniques used in Chinese Medicine. Below are a few that are typically used in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance its effects:

Electro-Acupuncture: Acupuncture needles are used to conduct small electrical currents. This technique, often used in conjunction with acupuncture, has been proven to decrease pain, accelerate healing, and significantly reduce inflammation, edema and swelling.

Moxibustion: A technique in which a Chinese herb called Mugwort or Artemisia Vulgaris is used to heat an acupuncture point, particularly in the treatment of certain debilitating conditions as well as arthritis and pain. Moxa is usually rolled into a stick, lit, and held over specific areas of the body. It can be used on a moxa box placed over a specific location of the body. Also, it can be placed onto the handle of an acupuncture needle for deeper penetration of heat.

Cupping: In cupping, a glass or plastic cup is suctioned onto the body and kept in place. This stimulates circulation, relieves swelling, and enhances the acupuncture or electro-acupuncture. Also helps relieve cough and hacking in the lungs.

Gua Sha: Also known as “spooning.” Gua Sha literally means, “scrape away heat”. Applying forceful strokes to the shoulders and back using a designated scraping instrument performs it. Gua Sha is used for many ailments from muscle aches to fevers to digestive and gynecological issues.

Tui Na: A form of Chinese bodywork using concepts of Chiropractic’s and Massage. It used in conjunction with acupuncture for a variety of musculoskeletal and organ-related issues. It enhances the effect of acupuncture and electro-acupuncture.