WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE (MANIPULATION THERAPY, “TUI NA”?
Therapeutic Massage uses the Traditional Chinese Medicine theory of channels and collaterals (meridians or pathways) and the flow of the Qi energy, as its basic therapeutic orientation. Through the application of massage and manipulation techniques, Tui Na seeks to establish a more harmonious Qi energy through the system of channels and collaterals, allowing the body to naturally heal itself. Massage methods include the use of hand and arm techniques to massage the soft tissues, stimulate acupressure points to directly affect the flow of Qi energy, and manipulate the alignment of muscular-skeletal systems and ligaments. External herbal poultices, compresses, liniments and salves are sometimes used to enhance the other therapeutic methods.
