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We have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions about TCM and acupuncture studies offered at the Toronto School of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Select a question from the list below for a complete explanation.
A. What is TCM?
B. What is acupuncture?
C. What is herbal medicine?
D. What is tuina massage?
Have we answered YOUR question? Click now to ask our staff a specific question not included in the list above.
A. What is TCM?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient healing system that is holistic in nature, comprehensive in perspective, and multifaceted in application:
- Ancient - TCM is a well-established and effective form of healing that is based on a rich history of insights and practical experience gathered over thousands of years.
- Holistic - In TCM theory all aspects of our being (body, mind, emotions, spirit) are considered intimately connected with each other and with our surrounding environment.
- Comprehensive - TCM focuses on more than just the outward symptoms of disease by addressing both the cause and manifestations of illness.
- Multifaceted - Various modalities of TCM such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, tuina massage, etc., work together to restore health and wholeness and to maintain and improve wellness.
The goal of TCM is to stimulate our innate healing abilities and restore harmony by regulating, balancing and unblocking the flow of energy in the body. Each modality of TCM accomplishes this in different ways.
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B. What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture restores health and harmony by means of the insertion of fine, single-use, pre-sterilized needles at specific points chosen in accordance with the patient’s individual needs and TCM diagnosis.
1. Does acupuncture hurt?
Some form of sensation is usually experienced during an acupuncture treatment. Generally, pain is not the desired result, although a pricking sensation is commonly felt when the needles are first inserted through the skin.
2. What will I feel?
Acupuncture may evoke a variety of sensations based on the location, depth and manipulation of the needles, and, of course, the individual’s response. Common experiences include tingling, heaviness, distention, numbness, a dull ache, and a sensation that radiates away from the point of insertion, or perhaps nothing at all.
3. Are there any harmful side effects?
Acupuncture is an invasive procedure and should therefore only be practiced by those who have had the proper training. In such cases, it is proven to be a safe and effective form of treatment. Side effects, if any, are usually mild in nature and disappear shortly after treatment. These may include bruising and fainting. Severe side effects such as skin infection, transmission of disease such as HIV, Hepatitis B & C, and pneumothorax may occur if it is performed incorrectly or the practitioner is not trained properly.
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C. What is herbal medicine?
Herbal preparations of various forms are also used in TCM to restore and maintain health. These herbal prescriptions are composed of single herbs that are chosen for their unique properties, tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
D. What is tuina massage?
“Tuina?is a form of oriental bodywork that uses therapeutic manipulations to affect not only the muscles and joints, but also the flow of energy in the body. Because of its focus on the stimulation of specific points along the energy channels, it may be considered a form of “acupuncture without needles?
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