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Acupuncture is often used for pain management. During an acupuncture treatment fine, sterile needles are inserted into acupuncture points and will remain inserted for 15-30 minutes, depending on the condition that is treated. There are several hundred points from which an acupuncturist can choose. Sometimes the area around a needle is warmed by burning a Chinese herb (mugwort) and this is referred to as Moxibustion.  Electronic stimulation (by connecting the acupuncture needles to a TENS machine) is also frequently used if stronger treatment is required.  

Cupping is a method that has been applied in the West as well as China    over a long period of time. Glass or plastic cups are placed on the skin over a painful area or acupuncture point to create negative pressure through suction. The rationale for use of cupping is described as a type of detoxification process by which waste matter and toxins (in Chinese medicine these are referred to as cold, heat and dampness) are brought to the surface, and as a harmonisation process for the imbalance of Qi (vital energy).  It is frequently used in support of massage therapy and acupuncture for pain relief. Traditional Chinese massage is based on the same principles as acupuncture and uses finger pressure on acupuncture points instead of needles. Certain massage techniques such as kneading, squeezing and patting are part of Chinese massage. It is designed to stimulate Qi and blood flow and can be used as an alternative or in conjunction with acupuncture.  

Chinese herbal medicine is the main treatment method of Chinese medicine and has more than 5000 medicines at its disposal. Chinese herbs are usually prescribed as a formula that may consist of up to fifteen different herbs, chosen after a thorough diagnosis to suit the individual patient. The most traditional, and often most effective way of prescribing Chinese herbs is in the form of a decoction, a tea extracted after boiling the herbs for a specific time. You will be given detailed cooking instructions at your visit, since different herbal mixtures may require different cooking times. The herbs are generally taken twice a day. Herbs can also be taken in pill, powder or tincture form if taste or convenience is an issue. Sometimes herbs may also be applied externally for symptom relief.