Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the oldest healing practices in the world, dating back more than 2000 years. It is a truly holistic medical system that takes into consideration all aspects of a patient’s health including diet, lifestyle, emotions, and life history. This holistic approach to patient care is essential in resolving the underlying cause of the disease and in preventing future illness.

The concept of “disease” in TCM is attributed to an imbalance in the body. The imbalance can arise from a multitude of sources but generally results in a disruption in the flow of natural qi (vital energy) and disharmony between the forces of yin and yang. If the imbalance is not corrected, a cascade of symptoms can arise leading to patterns that we recognize as diseases in Western medicine. Therefore, Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes the importance of treating the root cause of a disease and not only its symptoms. Treatments such as acupuncture, herbal medicine and massage aid healing by seeking to restore the balance of yin-yang energy. Health is achieved when the body is in a balanced state.

Acupuncture and herbal medicine are among many treatment modalities utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Moxibustion, gua sha, cupping, tui na, qi gong as well as nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice are therapies also included within the TCM medical system. After a thorough assessment, the TCM practitioner determines what combination of these techniques will be the most effective form of treatment.