Chinese medicine is a system of diagnosis and health care approach which has evolved over 3000 years. The principles for TCM treatment is to balance the disharmonies of the body namely Yin and Yang. Often the diagnosis made sounds like a weather report as these practitioners balance out the elements of the body such as dampness, fire, water, wind and earth which all affect the Qi or “Chi”. TCM takes into account every aspect of life such as your surroundings, your emotional state, physical state, and habits when making a diagnosis. With all the information collected, a proper treatment protocol is determined and these treatments are tailored for each and every individual. No treatment is the same.
TCM incorporates acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine/remedies, Tuina Massage and various modalities or tools. TCM has been used by people of all ages from newborns to seniors. TCM is gaining in popularity in the western world and is available in many private clinics, hospitals and with many health care professionals.
The benefits of TCM include; relief of pain, increased immune function, regulating and strengthening the internal organs and musculoskeletal systems, stress relief and relief of anxiety.
The Treatment
The treatment takes about 30-45mins. This involves taking the patients western medical history, questions about their lifestyle and questions relating to TCM. The practitioner also takes a look at the patients tongue, as this considered a window to the internal organs. The pulse by the wrist area is of great importance, it informs the practitioner if patients complaint is an acute or chronic conditions as well as what imbalances may exist in the body. Once a diagnosis is made from the information provided by the patient a treatment plan is devised which is unique for every individual. It may include herbs and acupuncture, or any one or coupled modalities used in TCM.