Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system dating back thousands of years used to prevent, diagnose and treat disease. The basic concept of TCM is that Qi, the body’s vital energy flows through meridians or channels in the body. When our qi becomes disrupted it causes an imbalance in the body which can lead to illness. TCM works to harmonize the qi, addressing the spiritual, emotional, mental and physical health. In the foundation of TCM, humans are considered microcosms of the universe and the laws of nature and elements of earth fire, water, wood and metal apply to the human body.
While TCM remains firmly rooted in its basic principles, it has evolved over time and is practiced and revered around the world. The main pillars of TCM include: Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Dietary Therapy, Tui Na Massage, Cupping, Moxibustion, and Qi Gong.
It is my philosophy to be knowledgeable and skilled in all areas of TCM to provide the most holistic and individualized treatment for my patients. I have gone beyond the initial Master of Oriental Medicine and also obtained a Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture as well as many other certifications such as clinical nutrition and massage therapy.
I have a private practice at Elixir: A Wellness Cooperative in Bend, Oregon. Please call 541-306-4471 to schedule an appointment.
Listed below is a brief description of the possible modalities offered in a TCM treatment:
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is a primary pillar of Traditional Chinese Medicine and usually involves the insertion of fine, sterilized needles at specific points in the body. The stimulation of these points induces the flow of “Qi” or energy throughout the body promoting internal balance and wellness. This method is widely used to treat pain and many other conditions.
My specialties include: acute and chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, sports injuries, immune and digestive health, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, headaches and migraines, hormonal imbalances, allergies, post-concussive care, neurological conditions, Bell's Palsy, TMJ, and facial rejuvenation.
Herbal Medicine:
Chinese Herbal Medicine uses combinations of plants and minerals to help stimulate the body's immune system and strengthen its ability to heal itself. Similar to acupuncture, herbal medicine can address a variety of conditions by stimulating and regulating "Qi" or energy within the body.
Herbal medicine can be administered in the form of powders, tinctures, tablets, pills, teas or topicals. Proper TCM diagnosis is essential for prescribing the appropriate herbal formula.
Cupping:
Cupping is a therapeutic technique in which glass or silicone cups are placed on the skin to create a suction. This negative pressure serves to break up stagnation, increase blood flow, promote cell repair, calm the nervous system, detoxify the body, and loosen muscles. Cupping is used to relieve back and neck pain, stiff muscles, stress, the common cold, fatigue, and even cellulite.
Bruising should be expected, but skin should return to looking normal within 10 days.
Tui Na Massage:
Tui Na translated as Tui "to lift" and "Na", push and squeeze" is a medical massage technique used in China for over 5,000 years. This technique includes kneading, rolling, pressing, rubbing and tapotement (percussion) of tissue thereby improving circulation, increases range of motion, and decreasing pain. It serves to relieve tension, muscle pain, inflammation, and promotes tissue healing.
As a licensed massage therapist, I incorporate Tui Na along with other forms of body work and massage.
Moxibustion:
Moxibustion, also known as moxa, is a form of heat therapy in which the herb Mugwort (Artemesia argyi or A.vlugaris) is heated and applied to the skin. The heat of moxibustion promotes the flow of Qi and Blood and the Mugwort directs this movement through the meridians.
Moxibustion is often combined with acupuncture and is beneficial for improving circulation, expelling cold, treating pain and arthritis, loosening muscles, boosting the immune system, improving energy, and treating digestive issues.
Dietary Therapy:
Dietary therapy is an integral part of TCM for the prevention and treatment of illness. TCM considers the properties of foods in accordance with nature and their impact on Qi, meridians and organs.
I believe firmly in the power of food as medicine and have done extensive education in this area. I hold a post-board certification in clinical nutrition and combine Western and Eastern dietary principles to help obtain maximum results for my patients.
Gua Sha:
Gua sha, which is translated as “gua” to scrape and “sha” sand, is a myofascial technique in which a flat, smooth object such as stone or spoon is used to rub the skin in long strokes. Gua sha increases blood circulation and relieves tension. It is often used to break down scar tissue, loosen stiff muscles, and is a technique used in facial rejuvenation.
Electro-acupuncture:
Elector-acupuncture is the application of electrical current to acupuncture needles. Developed in China in the 1930s, this relatively modern technique provides gentle stimulation to the acupuncture points and enhances Qi. The current is not strong enough to be transmitted through the body and the patient will only feel a light pulsation. Electro-acupuncture can effectively treat many conditions such as pain, sports and personal injuries, neurological conditions, and paralysis.