Tui-na/Acupressure is a form of Chinese bodywork therapy that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is considered one of the eight essential branches of Chinese Medicine, predates Acupuncture as a modality, and is used to relax muscles, relieve pain and enhance body energy. As in the case of Acupuncture, Tui-na/Acupressure stimulates the body's own restorative powers.

In comparison to Swedish massage or even Japanese shiatsu (which though similar is more closely associated with trigger point therapy,) Tui-na/Acupressure is a therapeutic method based on the Chinese Medical theory of the Meridan system, accompanied by a cultivated daily practice of Qi-gong and Dao Ying exercises. Tui-na is a physical expression of the flow of Qi from one human being to another. When done with correct intent, the strokes and techniques stimulate an exchange of Qi energy between the practitioner and the patient. Tui-na /Acupressure practitioners who apply Qi-gong in the treatments generate quicker healing results.

Tui-na includes the use of more than twelve different hand techniques that vary in degrees of strength, area of contact, and purpose (tonification or reduction). Hand manipulations and techniques are adjusted to suit the patient’s tolerance. Tui-na /Acupressure manipulations directly affect the flow of Qi at Acupuncture points, along meridians and across large muscle groups . External herbal liniments, salves, and compresses are also used to enhance the therapeutic effects.

Tui-na can be employed in the treatment of a variety of clinical disorders and is effective in alleviating pain syndromes. Due to its internal and external efficacy, Tui-na /Acupressure is now also widely recognized for its ability to help alleviate the symptoms associated with syndromes such as chronic fatigue, stress, and anxiety. Tui-na is also very effective in boosting energy, regulating Qi and blood, and balancing Yin and Yang.

Pediatric Tui-na /Acupressure is particularly beneficial in the treatment of such conditions as asthma, indigestion, myopia, enuresis, myogenic torticollis, and other ailments. Scalp Tui-Na is used to address conditions of mental stress, tension, baldness, and in the prevention of pre-senile dementia. Foot massage has the function of adjusting Qi and blood and enhancing general health; hence, it is often used clinically as a preventive measure.

Our professional staff is trained in both deep tissue and superficial muscle Tui-na/Acupressure. The treatment is dispensed along designated meridians and can be adjusted - either gentler or stronger - to suit a patients’ tolerance. In Tui-na/Acupressure, the practitioner transfers his or her energy to the patient in order to correct imbalances within the body. Any soreness experienced by the patient should dissipate within two days.

At Ming Qi Natural Healthcare Center, Tui-na/Acupressure sessions are incorporated with our Acupuncture treatments. Tui-na sessions usually last 15 or 30 minutes depending on the patient's request and the specific health condition. Patients wishing longer Tui-Na/Acupressure treatments, may schedule 1 -2 hour appointments. Patients should inform their Tui-Na/Acupressure practitioner if they are wearing a pacemaker, are pregnant, or have open wounds, lesions, infectious conditions, phlebitis, fractures, or other injuries. Acupressure might also be recommended in place of Acupuncture in the treatment of children or those patients who are particularly sensitive to needles.

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