Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has roots dating back over 2,000 years. Based from the ancient
philosophy of Taoism, the most commonly used practices of Tradition Chinese Medicine include
acupuncture, moxibustion, Chinese herbal medicine, tui na (Chinese therapeutic massage), dietary
therapy, tai chi, and qi gong (practices that combine specific movements or postures, coordinated
breathing, and mental focus).
Is It Safe?
Acupuncture and all of the other practices we offer here at our Los Gatos, CA office, are safe. As always,
please check with your practitioner and doctor before beginning any wellness plans, and be sure to
provide your practitioner with any important medical history before beginning your treatment.
Is It Effective?
Alternative medicine has been widely researched over the years, but some techniques have been
studied more than others. Most research has been focused on acupuncture, herbs, Qigong,
moxibustion, and tui na.
The NIH Consensus Development Conference has concluded that acupuncture an effective treatment for
a broad range of ailments. The report highlights the “efficacy of acupuncture for postoperative- and
chemotherapy-related nausea and vomited and for postoperative dental pain.” The report also adds
that “acupuncture may be useful as an adjunct treatment for other conditions such as myofascial pain,
low back pain, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, headache, menstrual cramps,
fibromyalgia, and asthma.”
The Society for Acupuncture Research noted that new conditions that acupuncture improves are
emerging such as pre- and postoperative pain, anxiety, and numerous Women’s Health Conditions.
The Take-Away
The bottom line is that we are living in an age where we have a vast range of options for a well-rounded
health and wellness plan. It is important to decide what approach of medicine you wish to rely on, as
well as finding which elements of traditional medicine and alternative therapies work best for you.
To learn more about the benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine, check out our previous post here:
If you are ready to take the next step in your comprehensive life wellness, please contact our office of
trained professionals of acupuncturists in Los Gatos, CA.