Ancillary Therapies

During treatment I may use a combination of Acupuncture, Tui Na and any of the ancillary therapies shown. I use a multi-disciplined approach to achieve the best results possible for each person. However, I will always discuss the treatment in detail before agreeing to use any of the ancillary therapies and will tailor the treatment to you as an individual. Remember that Chinese Medicine treats the person and not just the condition – and everyone is different so everything is tailored to you personally.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion (Moxa) is a dried herb related to the Mugwort family and is burnt either around or on the body (usually on slices of fresh ginger) or on the end of a needle to warm and stimulate the Qi and Blood. The Moxa is used as an external source of Heat and can help raise Qi and Yang and regulate the flow of the body’s energy. The heat is never directly applied to the skin and there is no risk of burning so there is nothing to worry about during treatment. I will discuss the use of Moxa in detail before using it in treatment and we will agree the process and type of approach.

Cupping

Cupping therapy has been used in China for thousands of years and much of the equipment and processes I use are exactly the same as they were all those years ago. I favour glass cups (often called 'Fire cupping') in treatment as they are easy to use and sterilize and I am able to observe the progress of the cupping as the cups are in place. A vacuum is created within the glass cup which is then used to allow them to be placed on the skin with suction to stimulate blood flow and clear stagnant Qi. Cupping regulates the free flow of Qi (energy) and Blood within the body and can be used to stimulate lymphatic drainage. It helps to draw out pathogenic factors and opens the pores of the skin. 

Gua Sha

In my practice I have found Gua Sha to be one of the most effective and valuable techniques to use alongside the more standard Chinese medicine techniques of Acupuncture and Tui Na Massage. Gua Sha is used where there is pain, heat or stagnation of Qi or Blood. Before applying the therapy oil is spread over the affected area and then I will gently rub or scrape the skin using a tool to bring up ‘sha’ or redness on the skin. This mild redness (similar to bruising) is a painless and gentle technique and Gua Sha is a very effective way to release stagnation and restore the flow of Qi and Blood in the area.

Cupping and Gua Sha may leave superficial red marks similar to bruises, but these are painless and quickly fade. If you are worried about this please discuss it with me and we can decide if they are reasonable for you.

 Treat Yourself

Relaxing Therapy

Herbal liniments, oils and lotions

These may be applied directly to the skin to stimulate the flow of Qi and enhance the energetic effects of the massage and/or acupuncture. The liniments and oils are often applied during the course of the treatment or afterwards before you leave, to continue the therapeutic effect for hours after.

Myofacial Sports Taping (Kinesiology Taping)

As a therapist involved in the assessment and treatment of sports related injuries and patients with neck, back and leg pain I often use taping as part of the treatment to continue the therapeutic effect. Kinesiology taping has been shown to assist with recovery from muscular pain and injury and can help the body’s own response to tissue inflammation. Taping can reduce pain and allow the smooth flow of Qi and energy in an injury which can speed up recovery.