Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapies

Acupuncture is commonly used for pain relief (e.g., back pain, headaches), stress reduction, and various health issues such as digestive problems, respiratory disorders, menstrual cramps, and infertility. In 2002, the World Health Organisation (WHO) identified 28 conditions for which acupuncture was found to be effective and nearly 100 other conditions where there was a therapeutic effect.

A review of clinical trials published by WHO in 2002 states that acupuncture has therapeutic effects on more than 100 conditions.

When performed by a trained professional, acupuncture is generally safe with minimal side effects. Some people might experience minor bruising, soreness, or light bleeding at needle sites.

People with bleeding disorders or who are taking blood thinners should consult their doctor before trying acupuncture. Pregnant women should inform their practitioner, as certain acupoints should be avoided during pregnancy.

Most people experience minimal discomfort when the needles are inserted. Some may feel a slight pinch, tingling, or a dull ache, but the sensation is generally mild and temporary.

The practitioner will assess your condition and insert needles into specific acupoints. You will lie still for 20-30 minutes with the needles in place. The practitioner may manipulate the needles or apply heat or electrical stimulation.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid heavy meals or vigourous exercise before the session. Inform the practitioner of any medications, allergies, or health conditions.

Rest and stay hydrated. Avoid strenuous activities, alcohol, and spicy foods between the sessions. Pay attention to how your body responds and inform your practitioner of any significant changes.

The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated, its severity, and the individual’s response to treatment. Some conditions may improve after a few sessions, while chronic issues might require ongoing treatment.

Look for a licenced and certified acupuncturist. You can check professional organisations like the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Coverage varies by insurance plan and provider. Some health insurance plans cover acupuncture, especially for pain management and certain medical conditions. Check with your insurance provider for details.

Yes, acupuncture is often used alongside other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or chiropractic care, to enhance overall effectiveness.

Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. It is believed to help by promoting relaxation and balancing the body’s energy.

Myofascial cupping is a modern technique based on ancient cupping, which is a form of myofascial release. “Myo” is a medial term for muscle, and “fascia” is a web-like sheet or band of fibrous connective tissue that surrounds bones and envelops, separates, or binds together muscles, nerves, organs, and other tissues of the body. Myofascial release is a manipulative treatment that attempts to release tension in the fascia due to trauma, posture, or inflammation. With this cupping technique, the cup can be moved whilst there is suction of the skin, causing a regional pulling of the skin, fascia, and muscle. Myofascial cupping does not include a flame, and suction is created from a handheld device that is under complete control by the qualified therapist.

• Increased range of motion by passive stretching of the tissue
• An increase in nutrient-rich blood supply and heating the area being treated
• Increased fluid movement to the tissue, assisting with recovery
• Decreases scar tissue
• Reduces muscle trigger points
• Reduces fascial adhesion
• Re-hydrates the fascia.
• Promotes muscle and full-body relaxation
• Relieves pain

People who may benefit the most from myofascial cupping are those who suffer from chronic pain, fascial restrictions, particularly scar tissue from old injuries or surgeries, and athletes. Cupping is generally for anybody and can be used on its own or easily incorporated into your next massage treatment.

Cupping is generally safe when applied by trained professionals. It is not recommended for people with health problems due to side effects, and we do encourage you to consult with your health practitioner prior to entering this treatment. Myofascial cupping is not recommended as a replacement for typical treatment and may result in bruising.

It is very important that you communicate with your massage therapist if/when you should feel any pain or discomfort, particularly when you cannot tolerate it. Similar to a remedial massage, myofascial cupping does focus on a deeper point in the muscles, and while pain usually is an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed, the pressure should be adjusted if you are struggling to bear this treatment (again, this is where you will communicate any discomfort to your therapist during the treatment). As well, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works better with your body’s natural response, not against it.

Fascial tissue is full of nerves and can easily get hurt. It’s important to consider that when the fascia is healthy, it is relaxed and can be stretched and moved. However, when the fascia is hurt, it becomes tight, less mobile, and restricted, and regardless of the point that is damaged, a source of tension occurs to the entire body.

The therapist will always consult with you upon completion of your treatment. Depending on your body and if they have located any “problematic areas,” you will generally be recommended to return at least once every 30 days. This is a way to maintain your body in an attempt to prevent any pain or discomfort. If you should have any “problematic areas,” you will be recommended more frequent visits at the discretion of your therapist until the area has been addressed and rectified back to a more acceptable state.

Chronic stress causes the fibres to thicken in an attempt to protect the underlying muscle, as well as poor posture, lack of flexibility, and repetitive movements that pull the fascia into ingrained patterns.

Your myofascial cupping treatment can either be carried out on its own as a sole treatment or in addition to your other selected massage treatment, whether this be added on top of or combined into your massage treatment. If this is added or performed on its own, your myofascial cupping treatment will last the full amount of 20 minutes as advertised with 5 minutes added on either side to your treatment, allowing you to undress and dress accordingly. Otherwise, if this is included in your massage, your massage therapist will determine the length of the treatment, which is usually applied between 10-20 minutes, depending on the necessity to use this therapy in your treatment.

It is recommended you allow yourself some relaxation time prior to and after the session and are more than welcome to utilise our lounge chairs in our waiting area. If you should decide to arrive early and insist on waiting for 5-10 minutes prior to your massage, even if the massage therapist is ready to take you through for your treatment, we will offer you tea or bottled water.