Ancient Chinese medical manuals document some of the earliest use of massage as a medical treatment. Traditional Chinese massage is still widely practiced in China today as a method for promoting overall health and wellness. Traditional Chinese massage treatments have also become popular in the United States. According to Western medical standards, however, Chinese massage treatments are considered to be a part of alternative medicine. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that scientific evidence conclusively supporting its effectiveness remains limited.
Goal
Enthusiasts believe that traditional Chinese massage treatments are effective in treating illnesses, helping your body fight infection and lifting your mood. This belief is based on several core principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In TCM, a force known as “qi” is believed to be the “energy” that enables human life. This qi moves along paths, known as “meridians,” keeping your mind and body in balance as it travels. According to TCM, weather-induced blockages on your meridians can unbalance your qi and cause ill-health. Traditional Chinese massage treatments seek to help restore your health by manipulating your soft tissues to clear existing blockages and stimulate the circulation of your qi. According to NCCAM, however, current research has not proven that any traditional Chinese massage treatment can successfully restore health.
Types
According to the Massage Therapy website, two popular traditional Chinese massage treatments include “an mo” and “tui na.” The an mo massage involves massaging your entire body using vigorous massage movements. An mo massage practitioners apply a pattern of massage strokes to all your muscles in an effort to circulate your qi. The tui na massage involves concentrating on specialized muscle groups. Tui na massage practitioners use steady, firm repetitive motions to help relieve pain in your joints and muscles. According to NCCAM, however, current research has not conclusively proven that any Chinese massage treatment is an effective method of pain relief.
Complementary Treatments
Depending on the nature of your ailment, your traditional Chinese massage practitioner may suggest that you take herbs like astragalus, ginseng or gingko as a complementary treatment to your massage. According to NCCAM, however, current research does not conclusively prove that these herbs are effective in treating any specific health problem.
Warning
If you are thinking about getting a traditional Chinese massage treatment for the first time, you should remember several things. You may experience side effects, such as bruising or muscle soreness, after receiving a traditional Chinese massage treatment. If you suffer from certain forms of cancer or if you are pregnant, you should consult with your doctor about further risks that may be associated with receiving traditional Chinese massage treatments.
Research Studies
Many research studies have been conducted exploring the safety and efficacy of various traditional Chinese massage treatments since they experienced a surge in popularity during the 1970s. Although none of the results have been conclusive, organizations like the National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine continue to investigate the plausibility of using traditional Chinese massage techniques as a health treatment.
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