Other Therapies
In Oriental medicine, other therapies besides body acupuncture include ear acupuncture, cupping, electro-stimulation, Tui Na massage, Yoga, Stretching, Breath work, and Qigong.
Ear Acupuncture
There are many points within the ear that represent the functions and organs of the body. Similarly to foot reflexology, another microsystem, the ear is a microsystem that is a reflection of our health as well as a method of treating the body. A microsystem represents the entire body from head to foot.
Although ear acupuncture is commonly administered as part of a whole body acupuncture treatment, it can also be performed independently. Often, instead of needles, acupressure is used to stimulate acupoints with small magnets or beads. Patients are often given a few beads to wear at home so that the effects of the treatment last longer.
Several benefits of ear acupuncture have been demonstrated, including an increase in endorphins and enkephalins. Research indicates that ear acupuncture relieves many conditions by stimulating the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves.
The following conditions can benefit from ear acupuncture or ear acupressure:
- Chronic and acute pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Stress and anxiety
- Insomnia
- Skin conditions and allergies
- Menstrual pain, hormonal imbalances, and endocrine disorders
Cupping
Cupping is a therapeutic technique to relieve pain, allergies, and colds. During the treatment, a glass or plastic cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The pressure this creates draws connective tissue into the cup. This increases circulation and initiates the first steps of healing. In Oriental medicine, we look at certain types of muscle pain as “stagnation”, cupping does wonders in removing stagnation and decreasing pain. Some light marking may occur from your treatment—this is an entirely normal and healthy response.
The benefits of cupping include:
- increases circulation
- encourages tissues to release toxins
- reduces anxiety
- reduce stretch marks and scars
- clear congestion and help treat asthma
- clear colon blockages and aid digestion
Electro-Acupuncture
Electro-acupuncture (EA) is the application of a small electrical current to acupuncture needles. E-stim is a way to provide reliable, consistent stimulation to acupuncture points without prolonged manipulation of the needles by hand.
Conditions that benefit from electro-acupuncture include:
- pain
- post stroke rehabilitation
- arthritis
- addiction
- stress
- tinnitus
Tui Na
Tui Na massage is a therapeutic form of massage focusing on specific areas of the body that need recovery. It has been practiced for centuries to treat musculoskeletal disorders and relieve pain. Unlike whole-body massage techniques, Tui Na focuses on pressure points and areas where tension or stress is stored. Tejal will use techniques such as kneading, tapping, and pressing to help release tension and improve circulation to the affected area. Tui Na is an excellent way to relieve pain and restore balance to your body.
Conditions that benefit from Tui Na:
- neck pain
- shoulder pain
- back pain
- headaches/migraines
- digestive problems
- menstrual cramps
- joint stiffness
- anxiety
Research Articles
The Effectiveness of Moxibustion: An Overview During 10 Years
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136359/
