TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) there are 12 organs and 12 meridians, (energy lines) each of which is related to one of the 12 organs. TCM is five  thousand of years old. Therefore, there are differences in some of the functions of the Chinese organs and the Western organs. However, if you take the total function of the Chinese organs they relate approximately to the total function of the Western organs. 

 

The methods of treatment are different, namely the insertion of needles at specific points on the body called acupuncture points, or the use of Chinese herbs which replace the conventional pharmaceutical preparations. 

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ACUPUNCTURE

The acupuncture meridians are connected to the internal Chinese organs and are used to carry energy to and from the organs so they can work together. If an organ malfunctions it first becomes over energized or under energized well before pathological changes that may take place later.

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There is a point on each meridian called called a tonification point and a sedation point. If the Chinese organ is lacking in energy you treat the tonification point to restore energy to the organ. If the organ is over energized you treat the sedation point to bring the excess energy back into normal range.  You can think of the acupuncture meridians as an interconnecting system of water canals which have a flow of energy which starts and ends at the same point. The energy travels through each meridian over a 24 hour period.

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ORTHOPEDIC ACUPUNCTURE

This type of acupuncture is specific to improving function and reducing or eliminating pain in the muscles, joints, bones and soft tissue. Orthopedic Acupuncture is combined with other methods like cupping, gua sha and myofascial release to speed up the recovery time.

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MANUAL THERAPIES

A variety of methods are used to free up and reset muscles, soft tissue, joints and bones. These methods are typically coupled with acupuncture or acupressure to achieve quicker results. Some of the methods I commonly use are hands on methods to reset and balance the muscles and surrounding soft tissue of joints. This may involve gentle and very specific pressure on muscles, joints and bones. Other methods I use are Cupping and a press stroke process known as Gua Sha. Zone Balancing is another manual therapy that is used to reset six systems of the body including: Endocrine, Elimination, Nervous, Digestive, Muscular and Circulatory Systems. This therapy can improve functions of these systems.

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PEDIATRIC ACUPUNCTURE

This type of acupuncture is specific to treating infants, toddlers, children and teens. Special tiny needles may be used and retained for a few seconds or a few minutes. Parents and patients are often surprised at how gentle and effective this form of acupuncture is. A variety of creative, non-needle methods for treating pediatric patients are used according to patient preference and individual needs.

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HERBAL MEDICINE

Chinese Medicine doctors are extensively trained in the use of botanical medicines. This may include the addition of single herbs, tonics, or custom compounded herbal tinctures for individual patient concerns. Herbs are available as food, powder, capsule, liquid and other forms depending upon the specific purpose of use and intent. Essential Oils are often chosen depending on the condition treated to enhance and quicken the healing process. We will find the best options for each patient's lifestyle and concerns. Dr. Mike has extensive experience with Adaptogens and Chinese Tonic Herbs and has been an herb formulator for over two decades.

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INDIVIDUAL SUPPLEMENT THERAPY

One key difference in the effectiveness of being on an Individualized Supplement Program is that the results a patient feels are typically more noticeable than a general supplement program. An assessment based on Chinese Medicine and in many cases lab tests, guides the selection and dose of professional grade herb and supplements. Many patients are surprised at how noticeable the effects are compared to herbs and supplements they have taken in the past.

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CLINICAL NUTRITION

In addition to Individual Supplement Therapy, a specific food program is prescribed based on signs and symptoms as well as test results if needed. Some examples of this would be tests for food sensitivities and intolerance, that show which foods to eliminate and which foods are beneficial to eat. This information can help clear up a host of symptoms, many of which have been resistant to treatment. Neurotransmitter tests can show imbalances that contribute to a variety of symptoms such as ADHD, Anxiety, Craving & Addictions, Depression, Insomnia, Fatigue, Migraines and PMS to name a few.  Very specific nutrients and herbs are then recommended based on the lab tests and follow-up tests are used to show the positive changes and any need for adjustment to the program. Patients often feel a sense of relief in knowing the underlying causes to their symptoms shown on the lab tests and the fact that there is a natural solution to their issue.

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LIFESTYLE COUNSELING

Our lifestyle choices have a huge impact on our health. An assessment is made on each patient to find out the areas where they need support, be it food, movement & exercise, ways to reduce pain, deep relaxation, daily inspiration and ways to reduce stress. On-going support is woven into the individualized treatment plan based on need. Some of this support includes Qi Gong, Meditation, Breathing Techniques, Restorative Pose and more. 

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