acupuncture • herbal medicine • bodywork • cupping • gua sha • class IV laser • magnet therapy • shakuju • moxibustion
Other Therapies
non-insertive techniques & adjuncts
Cupping
Glass cups are applied to the skin and held in place by suction. This suction acts as a vacuum and draws the superficial tissues into the cup, pulling blockages from the deeper levels of tissue up and out to be "cleaned up" and processed.
Through this lifting action, we are able to create space to free stagnation, increase circulation, and stimulate tissue healing cascades by bringing fresh blood, lymph, oxygen, and nutrients to a local area.
Cupping is helpful for many conditions including pain, digestive issues, irregular and/or painful menstruation, respiratory problems, and immune support.
Click here to read an interesting article about cupping.
Gua Sha
A technique that involves the gentle scraping of the skin and superficial tissues using a smooth-edged massage tool, usually made from porcelain, stone, or metal.
The intention of this modality is to encourage circulation, free stagnation, and hearten the body's healing response. Gua sha helps to break-up adhesions/fascial restrictions/scar tissue, vent heat, and move qi and blood so that deeper healing can occur. It’s used to treat colds, muscle tension, pain, and is also used to resolve internal issues such as mastitis and chronic inflammation.
The Graston Technique appropriated by Western clinicians was born from and inspired by the ancient practice of gua sha.
Click here to read an article on the antioxidative effects of gua sha.
Moxibustion
Involves the act of warming acupuncture points and body areas with dried mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion is used in a variety of ways to strengthen the body, stimulate circulation, and to help warm, soften, and relax areas of tension, stagnation, and tightness. It promotes the smooth flow of qi and blood and depending on how it is used, is able to address both excess and deficiency.
Moxibustion is a safe, non-invasive technique that is used in private acupuncture and bodywork sessions. We use it to ease tight muscles, open channels, clear stagnation, nourish sinews to treat arthritis and other joint/tendon/ligament conditions, aid post-surgery healing, and turn breech babies. Moxa also helps to regulate the immune system and calms and soothes the nerves and mind. We can use it in various ways depending on what a person needs. One can expect a pleasant, warming, relaxing sensation when receiving moxa.