The origins of acupuncture can be traced back to at least 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest health care systems in the world. It has been used for thousands of years in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan & Vietnam, and over 300 years in Europe. Acupuncture is one of the most commonly accepted complementary therapies in the West- Australia, many European countries, the USA etc.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of pre-sterilized thin solid needles into specific points on the body to improve health and treat illness, and is suitable for almost every health condition, either on its own or in conjunction with usual care.
The Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine uses substances mostly derived from plants (seeds, leaves, stems, roots, twigs, flowers, fruits etc.), while small portions of them are from minerals and animals. The use of these substances can be traced back to 1,000 BC and the earliest extant evidence of the usage of herbs for treatment was written in 168 BC. Over the past 3,000 years, very rich and powerful formulas that are very effective for many disorders have been developed. Traditionally, the herbs are slowly simmered in a ceramic pot and the resulting liquid is taken as prescribed. However, thanks to modern technologies, these herbs and formulas are also available in more convenient forms; granules, capsules and tablets.
Cupping therapy is usually used in combination with or alternative to Acupuncture treatment. Glass or plastic cups are applied using suction method to soft tissue areas. The application of stationary cupping and the end result of funny bruises are quite well known however, there are many other cupping techniques such as Gliding, Shaking, Lifting etc available depending on the conditions. It is commonly used for colds, soft tissue injuries, deep tissue disorders, digestive, gynaecological disorders, muscular paralysis & stroke etc.
The usage of Moxibustion is even older than Acupuncture. It is the medical application of burning mugwort floss on or over an acu-moxa point or an affected site. Other combustible materials such as Mulberry twigs, Peach twigs and Medulla Junci may also be used. It is frequently used with acupuncture.
There are a great variety of application methods and moxibustion has many different functions. It is very effective in relieving the signs and symptoms of arthritis, asthma, chronic fatigue, diarrhea, digestive disorders, gynaecological problems, hemorrhoids, musculoskeletal problems, skin disorders etc.
Tui-Na is one branch of TCM, it improves the circulatory functions of the sweat & sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It has therapeutic effects on the restoration of scar tissue through improving vascularisation of damaged tissue and breaking down fibrous tissue. It is particularly useful for disorders of the musculoskeletal system as it works directly into the affected tissues, resolving stagnation and assisting in the circulation.
It also assists in circulation of blood, lymphatic flow and venous return. It helps pain control by influencing pain threshold, enhances muscle relaxation by offsetting muscle fatigue, soreness and muscle tension. Consequently, Tui-Na can have positive effects on releasing stress, tension or anxiety.
Shawn uses his academic excellence and extensive clinical experience to find the most beneficial treatment for his patients. His compassionate nature coupled with a standard of excellence ensures his patients a great experience at ACE Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine Clinic.