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Tuina Massage

Illustration: A practitioner's hands resting on a folded towel beside a small bottle of massage oil

Tuina Massage: Chinese Therapeutic Massage

Tuina massage is a form of therapeutic massage from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This article explains what it is, how it is done, and what it is used for.

Therapist massaging the head of a woman lying on a treatment table

Tuina, pronounced “twee-nah,” is a form of therapeutic massage deeply intertwined with TCM. Tuina uses specific techniques along the channels and meridians, aiming to promote the free flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body.

Therapist massaging points on a woman’s face

Therapist massaging a patient’s back on a treatment table

Therapist massaging a patient’s foot and lower leg

Therapist massaging a patient’s calf

Therapist massaging an older woman’s head and temples

Woman massaging her wrist and hand

Key Aspects of Tuina Massage:

  1. Energetic Flow: Tuina massage is grounded in the same principles as acupuncture and acupressure, with a focus on stimulating Qi flow through the body’s meridians.

  2. Specialized Techniques: Tuina therapists use a variety of techniques including kneading, rolling, pushing, and grasping to address specific health concerns and energy imbalances.

  3. Diagnosis and Personalization: As in the rest of TCM, the treatment is based on a diagnosis of your constitution, pulse, and meridians.

  4. Uses: Tuina is used for musculoskeletal complaints, and also for stress, sleep and digestive complaints in Chinese medicine.

What Tuina Is Used For:

  1. Muscle and Joint Pain: Tuina is commonly used for pain from muscle tension, sports injuries, or chronic conditions like arthritis.

  2. Energy Balancing: In Chinese medicine terms, Tuina works along the energy pathways to move blockages.

  3. Relaxation: Many people find the gentle yet firm techniques of Tuina relaxing.

  4. Digestion: Tuina techniques are traditionally applied to the abdomen for digestive complaints such as bloating.

  5. Circulation: In Chinese medicine, Tuina is used to move Qi and blood.

Tuina is often combined with acupuncture in the same visit. How people respond varies. Book an appointment to find out whether it suits your case.

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Book your initial consultation online, or call the clinic at 647-346-2780.