Treatment Methods

In addition to acupuncture, Oriental Medicine includes a wide range of treatment methods that stimulate the body's healing response. Following are brief descriptions of some techniques that may be part of your  treatment:

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a technique in which the Artemisia herb (moxa) is burned to apply heat to an acupuncture point. It is used in the treatment of many conditions, including arthritis and digestive disorders. Moxa can either be burned on the handle of a needle, above the skin, or directly atop a slice of ginger, aconite or salt that prevents burning of the skin itself.

Electro-Acupuncture

Electro-Acupuncture is the addition of small electrical currents through the acupuncture needles. Electro-stimulation is often used in conjunction with acupuncture as it has been shown to decrease pain, accelerate tissue healing, and reduce inflammation and swelling.

Cupping

Cupping, a technique widely used in China, involves creating a vacuum under several glass "cups" and placing them on the body for about ten minutes. The suction created by the cups stimulates circulation and is used for many conditions, including back pain and common colds. It leaves purple or red circles at the site of cupping which fade in a few days.

Gua Sha

Similar in principle to cupping, gua sha is a healing technique used throughout Asia. Using a simple tool, friction is applied to an area to promote circulation in the tissues directly beneath the surface treated. Normal metabolic processes are restored by the movement of fluids resulting in an immediate decrease of pain and stiffness. It feels much like deep massage and leaves some redness which disappears in two to four days.