What is Chinese Tui Na Massage and what conditions can it help?
Commonly known as Chinese Massage, Tui Na is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been employed in China for over 2,000 years to treat people of all ages, with specialised treatment for infants to adults and seniors.
It is used in the treatment of both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions and for orthopaedics, trauma (injuries and wound healing), hair, skin and nail health, injury rehabilitation, as well as sports medicine.
Tui Na massage is particularly effective in reducing pain in the neck and back, shoulders, hips, arms, thighs, legs and ankles, and in treating arthritis, sciatica and muscle spasms.
Tui Na massage is also used to treat disorders related to the digestive, respiratory and reproductive systems, and stress-related disorders such as insomnia, headaches and anxiety.
How does Tui Na Massage work?
Although some of its techniques resemble that of Western massage, Tui Na is conceptually quite different.
Tui Na applies rhythmic compression (acupressure) techniques along different energy channels of the body to create harmonious flow and balance of vital energy (Qi) throughout the body. It uses the 350+ acupuncture points, which are arranged along the “meridians” (energy lines) in the body. However, unlike acupuncture, it does not utilise needles, which is reassuring to those with needle-phobia.
By keeping the body's energy in balance, health is maintained, and future problems may be minimized or prevented, not just corrected. Tui Na can help not just for physical health, but mental and emotional well-being as well.
Tui Na may be complemented with Chinese herbs to enhance healing effects.
