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Tuina therapy

By Pamela Allardice
Friday, January 16, 2009
Tuina therapy

Question: A Chinese friend suggested something called tuina for my sciatica. What is it and is it safe?

Answer

Tuina (pronounced twee-nah) is a very powerful and invigorating form of massage and manipulation. It is relatively new to Australia, although in China it is as well established and respected as acupuncture. The words tui and na literally mean 'push' and 'grasp', referring to the deep pressure the practitioner uses along the energy lines (known in Chinese medicine as meridians) and acupuncture points of a patient's body.

Tuina is considered to be helpful for neck, shoulder and back pain, sciatica, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and migraines. Many tension-related conditions can also respond well, including digestive problems, menstrual irregularities and respiratory ailments. It is, however, contraindicated for anyone with brittle bones, and for pregnant women. The tuina touch is deep and can occasionally be painful, so if you like to doze off during a massage or have a low pain threshold, it probably isn’t for you.

To find an acupuncturist or Chinese medicine practitioner near you that offers tuina, contact the Natural Therapy Pages (www.naturaltherapypages.com.au)

YOUR SAY: Have you tried Tuina? Share your experience below...


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