What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine is an extremely precise and complete medical system that has been continuously practiced for over 4,000 years and currently treats more than one third of the world’s population. Traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic and modern allopathic medicines are the three major medical systems in the world today. TCM is much more than just acupuncture. It includes herbology, injection therapy, moxabustion, massage (tuina), qi gong and lifestyle counseling for the treatment and prevention of disease, illness and injury. It is very intricate and extensive, requiring many years of study to master and is not just another “bag of tricks” that can be added to any health care profession by way of a 300-hour course. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has its beginnings over 4,000 years ago, bringing true meaning to the term traditional medicine. Based on the principle that we are a part of nature, health is established when harmony is achieved both within ourselves and in relation to the natural world. In diagnosing and treating an illness, Chinese medicine looks for the root cause in order to reestablish balance and restore health. Nature is seen not only to exist outside the body, but within as well.
How does Traditional Chinese Medicine differ from medical acupuncture or acupuncture performed by a chiropractor?
A TCM practitioner has been trained in the entire discipline of Chinese medicine, acupuncture only being a small part of this vast field of study. Therefore, in the United States, many acupuncturists are not TCM practitioners. Typically, medical doctors and chiropractors who use acupuncture have taken short courses of training in order to treat conditions symptomatically; treating the “illness”. TCM practitioners train at least 3-4 years in all aspects of Chinese medicine. TCM seeks to determine the “root cause” of a condition and proceeds toward bringing the body back into balance, supporting its innate ability to heal itself. From this perspective, several people seeking relief from a similar condition may each be treated differently because of their unique constitutions.
What kind of disorders can Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treat?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends TCM for treating the following conditions:
* Digestive Disorders – Diarrhea, Constipation, Gastritis, Acid reflux, GIRD, Ulcers, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colitis, etc.
* Pain – Migraine/Headache, Back and Neck, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Sciatica, Tendonitis, Toothache, Arthritis, Injuries, etc.
* Respiratory Disorders – Asthma, Allergies, Sinusitis, Sore Throat, Pneumonia, Cough, Bronchitis, Common Cold, Flu, etc.
* Women’s Issues – PMS, GYN disorders, Menopause, Irregular menstruation, Painful periods, Endometriosis, etc.
* Circulatory Disorders – High or Low Blood Pressure, Cold Extremities, Palpitations, Bruising or Bleeding, etc.
* Emotional Disorders – Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, PTSD, Stress, etc.
* Neurological Disorders – Bell ’s palsy, Numbness, Stroke, MS, Parkinson’s, Neuropathy, etc.
* Urinary/Kidney Disorders – Kidney Stones, Cystitis, Bladder Infection, etc.
* Children’s Diseases – Measles, Mumps, Growing Pains, Ear Aches, etc.
* Other – Vertigo, Prostatitis, Skin Disorders, Diabetes, Conjunctivitis, Fatigue, Liver & Gall Bladder Problems, etc.
How does TCM work to prevent illness, disease or injury?
Illness or disease is the result of imbalance in the body. Chinese medicine seeks to treat the cause of illness or injury, thus eliminating symptoms and encouraging health. It strengthens the immune system, increases energy, and promotes vitality. A skilled practitioner of Oriental medicine is able to diagnose imbalances and offer treatment, often before a manifestation of illness or injury occurs.
Is there a religious or philosophic basis behind TCM?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the laws of nature and universal Truth, which everything must follow in order to survive and thrive. We respect the right of each and every individual to pursue his or her personal spiritual beliefs. We welcome everyone, regardless of religious preference, ethnic background, age, gender, or sexual orientation.
Will my insurance cover acupuncture and herbology?
To determine whether your insurance covers the medical practices we offer, you need to check your particular policy. We have found that while some insurance companies recognize the benefits of acupuncture, they still do not understand the vital role of herbology, therefore rarely are herbs covered. To keep our rates as low as possible while providing exceptionally high quality service, we do not process insurance claims. For those with insurance, we provide all the information necessary for reimbursement from your insurance company.