Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the insertion of hair-thin needles at prescribed points in the body to affect the flow of Qi. Depending on the treatment style, acupuncture can be nearly painless. However, various sensations can be elicited to achieve therapeutic goals. Treatment leaves the patient feeling calm, relaxed, well-centered and energized.
It is commonly known that most types of pain respond well to acupuncture. Some examples are: arthritis, sciatica, endometriosis, dysmenorrhea, tendonitis, radiculopathy, tooth pain, back pain, neck pain, headache, post-operative pain, stomach pain, and Ob/Gyn pain, fibromyalgia, among others.
Many other ailments respond readily to acupuncture, such as: hormonal irregularities, poor digestion, constipation, fatigue, the common cold, influenza, sexual problems, problems due to lowered immunity, allergies, gynecological irregularities, asthma, repeated colds, migraine, ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, hypertension, vertigo, visual problems, addiction withdrawal, insomnia, numbness or tingling sensations, morning sickness, viral infection such as Lyme Disease, and nausea.
Shiatsu & Tuina
By unblocking the body in a similar fashion as acupuncture, Asian bodywork increases the blood supply to the muscles, tendons and organs and leaves one deeply relaxed. In some cases massage can be substituted for acupuncture and work quite well. Shiatsu is a Japanese form of acupressure where relaxed pressure is applied to the acupuncture points of the body. Tuina is a more vigorous form of bodywork that focuses on increasing the health of the tendons, muscles and joints. I prefer to add these therapies to an acupuncture appointment to increase the therapeutic outcome.
Herbal Medicine
The goal of Chinese Herbal Medicine is to support the body from the inside out. Formulas are designed to increase certain aspects of the body that need help. For example herbs are given to warms bodies that are too cold, move blood for those with pain, increase water metabolism for those with edema, clear toxicity for those with sores or inflammation. The art is to balance these herbal ingredients in a way that benefits each person as a unique interrelation of dynamics. Often a lengthy intake is required to understand the best course of treatment.
Diet Therapy
The basis of Chinese diet therapy is to eat according to the same principles that govern Chinese herbs. Unfortunately, the American diet is often the root of many medical conditions, such as: diabetes, depression, ADD/ADHD. Therefore it must be seriously addressed when it is a large contributing factor.
Taichi & Qi Gong
Tai chi was originally a martial art that was found to be very beneficial for the health of the body. It is composed of a series of graceful poses that strengthen the health of the body. Recent research has demonstrated increases bone density, improved balance and decrease falls in the elderly. In private lessons I teach a basic introductory form with emphasis on correct posture, mindfulness and relaxation.
Those interested in learning the art in its most authentic form should be aware of a school in Boston's Chinatown. Master Gin Soon Chu headed the school and his sons teach the complete Yang system, including aspects of the art known by only a few.
Qi Gong Therapy consists of special techniques by which Qi is regulated through specific exercises or external manipulation.