Shoreline Wholistic

Tui Na is an integral component of Chinese Medicine. Tui Na's literal translation is "pushing and grabbing." In practice, Tui Na is a remedial massage that corrects specific physical ailments of the body. Unlike many popular forms of massage which focus on relaxation, the goal of a Tui Na treatment is to resolve painful conditions and treat illnesses. The ailments may be musculoskeletal in origin or they may be internal organ pathologies. Examples of conditions treated by Tui Na are headaches, back pains, ankle sprains, scoliosis, hypertension, digestive disorders and insomnia. Following a Tui Na treatment, most patients report feeling re-energized and relaxed.

Tui Na utilizes deep pressure to move the Qi and blood within the meridians to disperse stagnation and balance the body. The practitioner uses hand techniques such as pressing, rubbing, pushing, grasping, kneading, and rolling to release the muscles, promote circulation and decrease pain. In pediatric Tui Na, rubbing is often used on the abdomen as it stimulates digestion, strengthens the spleen and reduces abdominal swelling. The practitioner uses the palm of their hand or the flat of their fingers to rub the affected areas in circular motion. It is very soothing and highly effective.

Vigorous movements such as extensions, rotations, lifting and pulling techniques complement the hand techniques to correct structural misalignment and benefit the musculoskeletal system. For example, rotating method treats joint dysfunction and arthritis by increasing flexibility in stiffened joints especially of the shoulders. The pulling method is effective for unwinding soft-tissue adhesions to benefit the extremities.

In China, Tui Na Traumatology was a family tradition that was passed down the generations and kept within the family especially among the Martial Artists. Tui Na practitioners receive the same rigorous education and training as Acupuncturists and Herbalists.