Unleashing the Power of Massage and Acupuncture Combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine & Herbs

February 6, 2024

Unleashing the Power of Massage and Acupuncture Combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine & Herbs

For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices like acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies with herbal acupuncture products have been effectively utilized in Asia to promote natural healing and overall wellness. Now, growing numbers of North Americans are also experiencing the transformative benefits of these potent yet gentle therapeutic modalities. 

Here at Bonafide Acupuncture & Herbs, located in Brooklyn, New York, we incorporate time-tested practices of Chinese medicine with modern massage therapy techniques to treat chronic pain, stress, and a variety of other health concerns effectively. Through carefully developed treatment plans combining acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies, our practitioners help patients restore balance and reclaim their vitality.

Chinese Massage and Acupuncture Treatment

In the Chinese medical paradigm, massage is considered an extension of acupuncture as it stimulates acupuncture points and moves qi (pronounced “chee”), or life force energy, through the meridian pathways. Our practitioners are highly skilled in Traditional Chinese tuina massage designed to address muscular issues, increase circulation, improve flexibility, and relieve pain. Specific massage techniques like shiatsu apply focused pressure along meridian lines to clear blockages and restore gentle internal organ balance. When paired with Chinese massage and acupuncture treatment it benefits by enhancing qi movement triggered by the inserted needles. Patients report decreased inflammation and improved mobility following combined sessions.

Classical Chinese Acupuncture Therapy

Classical Chinese acupuncture is the foundation of our practice, using ultra-thin needles inserted at precise points to stimulate the nervous system and encourage natural self-healing. Based on the TCM model that sees the body as an interconnected system requiring harmony, acupuncture aims to restore balance when qi becomes disrupted or stagnant. Common conditions aided by acupuncture include chronic pain, digestive issues, fertility challenges, stress/anxiety, fatigue, and more. Our licensed acupuncturists skillfully employ a variety of related modalities, as shown below.

Korean 5 Element Acupuncture

Taking Traditional Chinese acupuncture methods further, Korean 5 Element acupuncture utilizes just four needles placed in highly energized internal organ zones. Developed centuries ago, this simple yet potent technique has been shown to effectively treat stubborn illnesses. With few needles precisely inserted, our practitioners can efficiently target root issues and help the mind and body restore equilibrium. This technique may be a good place to start for new patients.

Herbal Acupuncture Products

Enhancing acupuncture effectiveness, our herbal formulas contain medicinal plants chosen based on each patient’s unique symptom picture and energy imbalance. Formulated specifically for issues like arthritis, insomnia, hormonal imbalance, and gastrointestinal discomfort, these supplements work in synergy with bodywork treatments. A few herbal remedies we carry are highlighted below, but our herbal apothecary contains many additional options.

Brooklyn Acupuncture and Massage

Conveniently located in the heart of Brooklyn near multiple subway lines, our two welcoming clinics in Prospect Heights and Bay Ridge are equipped with comfortable treatment spaces optimized for relaxation and healing. We accept most major health insurance and offer sliding scales for affordable care. Utilizing soothing music, aromatherapy, and verbal guidance during treatments, our caring staff is deeply committed to each individual’s self-empowered wellness journey. Contact us today to start your integrated Chinese medicine therapy plan.

Additional TCM Therapies

In addition to Brooklyn acupuncture and massage, our licensed practitioners are also trained in other healing modalities incorporated into customized treatment plans:

  • Moxibustion and Infrared Light Therapy: An herb called mugwort is used to stimulate points by inducing heat and infrared light into muscles and tissues. This promotes circulation and relaxation.
  • Trigger Point Therapy: Our practitioners locate and manipulate trigger points and fibrotic knots within tight muscles that cause referred pain patterns. Releasing them releases “dormant” pain signals.
  • Electro-Acupuncture: Pairing micro-currents with needles, electro-acupuncture enhances the effects of traditional acupuncture for conditions like musculoskeletal injury rehab or neurological challenges.
  • Cupping Therapy: Glass or bamboo cups create suction on the skin to increase local circulation, reduce swelling, and ease deep-seated tension or pain in muscles.
  • Gua Sha: A special massage technique using a smooth-edged tool that gently glides along the skin surface, easing tension and promoting qi flow. Areas may display temporary redness.

Natural Healing with Herbal Remedies: Recommended Bonus Products

In addition to direct therapies, we carry herbal remedies from trusted manufacturer Meridian Biologix formulated to support traditional practices, including:

  1. Chiropractor in a Bottle by Peekay: A liquid tincture supporting back, spine, and joint health containing herbs like turmeric and devil’s claw. Take 5 to 10 squirts, 2-3 times per day, or as directed by your health care provider.
  1. Po Sum On Medicated Oil: This external trauma oil soothes muscle soreness and aids sprains/strains with camphor, peppermint, and wintergreen. Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub evenly for a few minutes, 3 to 4 times a day.
  1. Kwan Loong Oil: Another cooling topical herbal oil employed for strains/tendonitis pain relief. Its main ingredients are camphor and clove oil. Adults and children 12 years and older, apply a few drops and rub into the affected area not more than 3-4 times daily.
  1. Enteromend: Containing proteolytic and carbohydrase enzymes, this supplement treats symptoms of food intolerance, including gas, bloating, and digestive distress, when taken with meals. 1-3 capsules per day to provide DPP IV enzyme activity and assist with carbohydrate, protein, and fat breakdown.

FAQs

Q: How many treatments are needed to see results?

A: Most notice relief after a few sessions, though chronic issues may require 6-8+ spaced over weeks for full transformation. Maintenance care promotes longevity.

Q: What conditions does acupuncture benefit?

A: Pain (sprains, arthritis, etc), anxiety, stress, fertility challenges, menopause symptoms, digestive upset, insomnia and many others linked to free-flowing qi.

Q: Is acupuncture safe?

A: Yes – when performed by licensed experts, it has an excellent safety record and rarely any side effects beyond minor tiredness. Auricular acupuncture (ear points) is painless.

Q: What can I expect from my first treatment?

A: Our consult evaluates your health history before designing a customized plan. Your relaxation experience may include acupuncture with or without electrical stimulation, followed by a soothing herbal tea.

Conclusion:

By combining proven Traditional Chinese modalities of acupuncture, massage, and herbal formulas, Bonafide Acupuncture & Herbs offers a comprehensive approach tailored for each individual. Our practitioners are dedicated to empowering patients on their wellness journeys and helping them reclaim energetic balance from within. Don’t hesitate to contact us today and start experiencing the transformative power of Chinese medicine.