Tuina (pronounced “twee-nah”) is a form of clinical Asian bodywork that originated over 2000 years ago and is deeply rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Tuina affects muscles and fascia while influencing the energetics of Qi in the channels. Pain usually indicates a blockage in channels which obstructs the flow of Qi throughout the body.
Tuina prevents and treats dis-ease. It is a system of therapeutic manual techniques that promote an increase of vital energy or life force (Qi) and blood (Xue) circulation, thereby removing obstructions in channel pathways. This facilitates healing of soft tissue injuries, improves joint mobility and nerve regulation, and adjusts the functions of the internal organs and cellular tissue metabolism.
Techniques range greatly from gentle, relaxing movements (rolling, vibration, rocking, thumb meditations, holding, pushing, grasping and passive range of motion) to deep and invigorating techniques (plucking, scrubbing, skin rolling and tapotement). In addition to working locally to loosen problematic areas, tuina is often applied to entirely different areas of the body that help move blocked Qi, such as corresponding sections of the arms and legs.
Tuina for Pain
Chronic muscular tension can be reduced by improving the relationship between muscles and fascia around joints. It can be assumed that “deep” tissue must have intense pressure, but it is not necessary to force muscles into a relaxed state. Tuina can focused on the areas that need attention the most.
Tuina for Athletes
Invigorating but moderate pressure is sure to limber up anyone whose body needs a break from the rigors of training. Techniques incorporated are focused on optimizing recovery, increasing circulation and flexibility and reducing pain to bring focus back into the mind.
Acupuncture and tuina may be combined and often with guasha (scraping), cupping, moxibustion, therapeutic exercises, herbal formulas and topicals. Guasha and cupping will sometimes leave a temporary mark or discoloration but do wonders to alleviate discomfort and help the body release toxic accumulations. Moxibustion uses a specific herb called ai ye/ mugwort leaf to warm and move Qi in muscles, joints and channels.
Tuina is normally applied over comfortable, cotton clothing. This allows for a mobility and ease of passive movement and stretches.
Sports and Musculoskeletal Conditions
- Sore muscles
- Joint mobility
- Tension headache
- Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD)
- Cervical/ Shoulder tension
- Frozen shoulder
- Tennis/ Golfer’s Elbow
- Carpal tunnel
- Lumbar pain or tension
- Sciatica
- Piriformis syndrome
- Scoliosis
- SI joint disorders
- Knee pain
- Shin Splints
- Ankle strains or sprains
- Plantar fasciitis
- And many more
Internal Conditions
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Dysmenorrhea
- PMS symptoms
- Minor digestive symptoms
Dr. George Tabares 