Tui
Na
(Chinese medical massage)
is Closely related to acupuncture
in its use of the meridian system, Chinese Medical Massage is
considered to be effective for a similar range of health problems.
It is an effective and
comprehensive therapy and is regarded alongside herbs, and
diet as one of the fundamental arts of Traditional
Chinese
Medicine (TMC).
Delbert J. Newman of Sierra Shan Acupuncture and Herbal
Center in Three Rivers, California studied TCM Theory
and Chinese Herbs at Tianjin College of TCM, Peoples Republic
of China. He then interned at Tianjin Number One Hospital
for one year. Tuina (tui na), administered by a qualified practitioner,
is well suited for the treatment of specific musculoskeletal
disorders
and
chronic
stress-related
disorders
of the digestive, respiratory and reproductive systems.
Tuina (tui na) is not especially useful for those seeking
a mild, sedating and relaxing massage since it tends to be
more
task focused than other types of bodywork. Contraindications
include conditions involving fractures, phlebitis, infectious
conditions, open wounds, and lesions.
In Chinese medicine, meridians are
a web of pathways that link internal organs to outer
extremities. Through these pathways flow the body’s
vital energy, blood and body fluids. Fourteen regular meridians
run throughout
the human body. Acupoints are sites along these meridians
where vital energy, blood and body fluids accumulate. There
are three
hundred and sixty-one acupoints dotting the course of
the meridian network.
When the meridians function normally, the flow of vital energy,
blood and body fluids to organs and tissues is smooth promoting
normal functions. However, if the meridians become blocked
or deficient, illness can occur affecting the internal organ
with which the meridian is connected.
Removing the blockage or tonifying the deficiency will redress
the imbalance with the meridian and cure the illness. The purpose
of Chinese massage is to release the vital energy, blood and
body fluids stored within them. Massage relaxes the muscles
and joints and promoting blood circulation. Massage of the
meridians can free the circulation of depressed vital energy.
 Chinese massage is effective in treating the circulatory and
lymphatic system to achieve the following: dilate peripheral
blood vessels and improve general blood circulation, lower
blood pressure, indirectly facilitate the absorption of swellings,
increase the level or red and white blood cells, platelets
and hemoglobin. This massage also has proved effective on the
respiratory, digestive and metabolic systems to deepen respiration,
increase oxygen intake and expulsion of carbon dioxide, invigorate
digestive functions. It also has beneficial effects on the
skin, muscles tissues and joints and tendons. At Sierra Shan Acupuncture and Herbal Center, we will
incorporate Chinese medical massage into an individualized
course of treatment as prescribed.
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