What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an umbrella term for a number of therapeutic practices under the one diagnostic framework.
What types of therapies are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
- Cupping - Uses rounded glass/plastic cups that are suctioned to the skin by creating a vacuum. It is beneficial for freeing up any blood stagnation due to physical trauma, freeing Qi (energy) flow and benefits the lymphatic system. It is also used at the acute stage of Colds and Influenza to prevent progression of the disease. Cupping is particularly beneficial for musculoskeletal conditions of the neck, shoulder and back.
- Gua Sha - Uses a smooth edged instrument (flat piece of jade, asian soup spoon) to stroke the skin with pressure. This therapy is traditionally used to clear heat, release blood stagnation, improve painful musculoskeletal conditions, and prevent the progression of Colds and Influenza.
- Tui Na - is a form of Chinese Massage with similarities to Acupressure. This therapy is often incorporated into treatments when necessary. It is also used as an adjunctive palpatory diagnostic technique.
- Acupuncture - click for more information.
- Chinese Herbal Medicine - click for more information.
History and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditionally, knowledge and practice of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture were passed on through family based apprenticeships.
During the time of the Chinese Cultural Revolution (1949), the government attempted to eradicate the use of Chinese Medical therapies and practices in favour of Western Bio-medicine. This proved futile due to the incredible size and population of China. The government recognised that Chinese Medicine was an important and necessary aspect of Chinese health and culture.
A decision was made to standardise and secularise the practice of Chinese Medicine by examining the common aspects of each family lineage. TCM was the name given to the officially approved version of Chinese Medicine. This is the style of medicine that is taught all over mainland China as-well as many international Universities and Colleges that are affiliated with China. It is a combination of Western and Eastern diagnostic philosophies, using a number of Eastern therapies. Our resident Acupuncturist Jeremy Dotch, trained extensivly in this style of medicine.
For more information, read about our TCM practitioner Jeremy Dotch, or contact us on 02 9904-1333 to make an appointment.
