“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” This is as true now as it was in the 4th century BC when it was said by Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine. In TCM, looking at a patient’s diet is one of the first places we go when there are disharmonies in the body. Although in the west we often think a salad and a cold glass of water is a healthy meal, this may not be true for everyone and every-body. We are unique people and so are our digestive systems! It’s equally important to have a meal plan that suits your body, condition, and health goals as it is to see your acupuncturist regularly.
Chinese medicine does not use any gimmicks like fad diets or handfuls of vitamins. I believe in balance and working with your individual needs. Together we will discuss your current diet, how it affects you, and come up with a plan that will help you obtain your optimal health.
Acupuncture is one of the best known modalities of TCM. At Spot of Qi, I strive to make the patient as comfortable as possible. I only use single-use, sterile, stainless steel needles.
Acupuncture points are chosen based on the patient's diagnosis at each treatment and are used as a catalyst for change in the body. When the body has disharmonies, acupuncture helps to reestablish homeostasis by balancing Qi, Blood, and Essence.
As an adjunct to acupuncture, you may also receive electric stimulation (e-stim) or moxibustion (moxa). E-stim is similar to a tens machine in that it emits electric stimulation to your body for a therapeutic effect. However, when used in acupuncture, the electric current penetrates much deeper and can provide significant pain relief, reduce swelling, give a sensation of massage, and stimulate healing.
Moxa, also known as Moxabustion, is a chinese herb that is used for heat therapy or even as an alternative for acupuncture needles. It can be used in stick form or loose and placed on the ends of needles or directly on the skin. Moxa is not painful and is very therapeutic-- its uses are numerous.
ACUPUNCTURE & MOXA
CUPPING & TUI NA MASSAGE
Cupping utilizes small dome-shaped glass cups to create suction on your skin. The suction is created by lighting a cotton ball on fire which is then inserted into the cup to remove the oxygen. The flame is used only for a second so the cups do not get hot and will not burn your skin. Cupping creates space between the muscle and skin and helps to increase circulation, break up scar tissue and fascia, remove toxins, and gives the patient a great massage! The cups can be kept stationary or used with oil for moving cupping.
Cupping can leave a light red to dark purple mark at the cupping site. This is a normal reaction and is simply blood under the surface of the skin. These marks will fade after one day to a little over a week.
Tui Na, literally translated as push and grasp, is an ancient form Traditional Chinese Medicine medical massage. Much like shiatsu massage, it follows the TCM theory of the flow of Qi through channels and meridians in the body. Tui Na is a dynamic bodywork method that utilizes hand techniques such as acupressure, pressing, shaking, rocking, plucking, stretching, and joint mobilizations. These techniques affect soft tissue (muscle and tendons), improve the flow of Qi to the affected area, break down scar tissue, and realign muscle fibers and bone.
Tui Na has a myriad of therapeutic applications including, but not limited to, sports injuries, tendon and muscle strain and tightness, arthritis, muscle fatigue, sprains, post-op healing, back pain, headaches, cramping, inflammation of muscles, and tendonitis.
Treatments last from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on a case by case basis. As Tui Na is rather vigorous, longer treatments are not necessary.
TCM NUTRITION
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbal formulas specially prescribed for the individual is an essential part of healing and health. At Spot of Qi, I offer herbal prescriptions in many forms- powders, pills, capsules, and in some cases even pre-measured single dose packs. I want taking your herbs to be as convenient as possible so you can reap the benefits they have to offer!
Taking formulas is the best way to extend the benefits of an acupuncture treatment while also being a powerful healing force all on their own. Established patients receive a free herbal consultation with every acupuncture treatment, however, I also offer consultations “a la carte”' for those who wish to only receive herbs.
HERBAL MEDICINE
BRENDA HATLEY,L.Ac. Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine