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Acupuncture,
Moxibustion
& Cupping
针灸、拔罐治疗
Acupuncture is a widely used procedure in TCM, both for therapeutic and preventive purposes. It involves the insertion of thin needles into your body at specific points (acupoints), anywhere along the 12 lines of energy (meridiens), to stimulate nerves and muscles. The needles may be manipulated manually or stimulated with small electrical currents (electroacupuncture). The aim of acupuncture is to remove blockages along meridiens to restore the balance of Yin and Yang in our body.
Several reports support that acupuncture may have effects on the nervous system, effects on other body tissues, and nonspecific effects. Its effectiveness, especially in the management of acute and chronic pain conditions, has been proven in numerous scientific research and clinical studies.
Other than acute and chronic pain management, acupuncture is also commonly used to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of diseases and conditions such as:
• cancer support and management of side effects of cancer treatment
• post-stroke rehabilitation
• sports injuries
• gynaecological conditions such infertility, menopause, menstrual problems and prenatal support
• digestive system ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome and GERD
• adrenal fatigue
• localised and systemic inflammatory responses
• skin conditions
• anxiety, depression and sleep disorders
• general health and wellness management, etc
Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy that is sometimes done to enhance the effect of acupuncture. It entails the burning of a herb called ‘mugwort’, which is known for its warming properties. Moxibustion promotes homeostatic balance by facilitating the flow of blood and ‘Qi’, eliminating internal colds and dampness to activate our body’s organic functions.
Cupping is done by introducing heat into glass/bamboo cups to remove air, creating suction on your skin. This suction force draws fluid into the treated area, it also expands and breaks capillaries under the skin. Our body treats the cupping area as an injury, it sends more blood to the area to stimulate the natural healing process.
‘Wet cupping’ is a variation of cupping that involves the puncturing of the skin using needles before applying cups. Some blood is drawn to stimulate the flow of meridians, promote blood circulation and expel pathogens from the body.
This helps to:
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reduce localised swelling and pain
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remove blood clots
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expel heat and remove toxins
Wet cupping is commonly used to treat conditions such as acute sprains, fevers, sore throats and headaches.
Cupping is often used to achieve the following:
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improve blood circulation
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relief muscular stiffness/pain
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remove ‘dampness’, to expel toxins
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stimulate sensory nerves to manage some internal conditions
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for relaxation and general wellness
The process leaves round bruise-like marks that typically fade in a week or two. The colour of the bruises provides information that can be used in TCM diagnosis.