What is Tui Na ?
Tui Na is a manipulative physical therapy practice developed over thousands of years and now in everyday use in Chinese hospitals and clinics. Today, Tui Na is subdivided into specialized treatment for infants, adults, orthopaedics, traumatology, rehabilitation and sports medicine. In the West, it is still relatively unknown but is taught at some TCM and acupuncture centres in the UK, Europe and USA. Acupuncture is available via the NHS so it is likely that Tui Na and other massage types may follow once its many benefits are more widely recognised.
Tui Na in Practice
The name comes from two of the actions: tui means “to push” ; na means “to lift and squeeze.” Other strokes include tapping,shaking and percussion, and techniques may be gentle or quite firm. I can then use a range of motions, and stimulate different acupressure points according to your needs. Tui Na techniques have been demonstrated to aid in treatment of both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as many non-musculoskeletal problems. It is common for clients to report improvement in additional seemingly unrelated health aspects (both mental and physical ) as well as in the body area directly treated with Tui Na massage, due to Tui Na promoting internal healing.
What to expect
Following discussions on your initial visit your medical history and lifestyle is noted and the treatment tailored to your specific needs and goals. In some cases it may be necessary to obtain your doctor’s permission prior to starting treatment. (All client records are stored securely). Unlike Swedish Massage, Tui Na is usually carried out on the clothed body so in most cases there is no need to undress. Belts, shoes and any tight clothing should be loosened and jewellery removed. Depending on the target areas to be massaged, you sit on a chair or lie on the massage couch. Soothing music plays and fragrant candles are used for relaxation.
Age range
Tui Na can benefit all ages, from babies to the elderly. In addition to treating medical problems, it strengthens your immune system and improves physical and mental health.
Disorders treated
Tui Na is effective in treating disorders that in western countries are treated by physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractice as well as by prescription and non-prescription drugs. It is particularly effective on chronic pain arising from musculo-skeletal problems such as
- stiff neck
- frozen shoulder
- low back pain
- fibrositis
- lumbago
- sciatica
- muscle spasms
- tennis elbow
- sports injuries
Due to the stimulation of acupressure points Tui Na also treats –
- headaches
- migraines
- insomnia
- tension
- gastric pain
- constipation
- IBS
Are there any side effects?
As with conventional western medicine Tui Na can produce side effects in some people but most of them are positive, it varies between individuals and of course according to the condition under treatment. You may feel a lot more energetic whereas others are tired, due to the body regaining balance and recovering from changes induced. You may feel worse rather than better after your first session, but give it time! A series of treatments is necessary to gain the full benefits, six over six weeks is generally recommended.
Aftercare
Following your session, you will be given water, continue drinking lots of water as this flushes out toxins. Wait 10 minutes before driving or operating machinery. Avoid alcohol and caffeine intake as they dehydrate the tissues and add toxin. Avoid strenuous exercise and do not eat a heavy meal, rest to allow your body time to rebalance. Comprehensive After-care information will be given and explained to you after your session.
If you have any concerns after treatment or between sessions do not hesitate to contact me right away.
