Tui-na is a very effective medical therapy as a practical method for health preservation. Doctors specializing in massage in China nowadays not only need to master well Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theories, where Tui-na has its roots, but also Western Medical theories.

Tui-na manipulations can improve the functions of the internal organs of the body, enhance the flexibility and movement of limbs and joints and strengthen the body. Chinese massage manipulations can dilate the subdermal capillaires, accelerate blood cirulation and improve the nutrition of the skin.

Traumatic and orthopedic diseases such as soft tissue injury, strain, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebral diseases, sciatic, arthralgia, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue often respond well to medical massage therapy when other modes of treatment have failed.

A survey released by the American Massage Therapy Association found that 18% of Americans are enjoying massage therapy - more than double the number since 1997. Each type of Massage differs in technique, but the emphasis is always on providing relief by manipulating the soft tissues and muscles of the body.

Massage and bodywork encompass numerous manual therapies that can effectively complement TCM's healing capacities. Patients experience a myriad of health benefits under the massage and bodywork umbrella of modalities, and that the therapeutic value of massage therapy would multiply tremendously when combined with the healing properties of TCM. Consider some of the benefits of massage and bodywork.

The following are two commonly practiced massage modalities.

Structural integration
Structural integration,developed by Ida Rolf, is a technique that manipulates and lengthens the fascia system in a systematic way, aiming to restore structural balance and return harmony to the patient's internal environment. As you know, everyday stressors - whether physical, mental or emotional - impact the body, subsequently creating myofascial stress patterns. For some, these stressors evolve into habitual patterns that the subconscious eventually takes over: the shrugging of shoulders due to holding the phone throughout the course of a workday, for example.

The clinical benefits of structural integration described by patients include increased energy, greater range of motion, increased ease of movement, improved sense of balance, and better posture. TCM practitioners specializing in pain management, orthopedics and athletic performance can complement their acupuncture practice by adding this service. Like acupuncture, structural integration is a very personal process - and no two people respond the same.

Swedish massage
Swedish massage is a common modality many patients may have already experienced or added to their health maintenance programs. Swedish massage, the most common form of massage, positively impacts the body by acting as a mechanical cleanser; it promotes circulation in stagnant areas and aids the lymphatic system in the elimination process, as each stroke glides from each attachment.

The clinical benefits of Swedish massage effectively complement any general health plan already using acupuncture and/or herbal prescriptions. Some general physical and mental benefits from Swedish massage include reduced anxiety, strengthened wei qi, sedation of the nervous system, increased flexibility and range of motion, and recovery from injuries and illness. Other benefits include a calming of the spirit, clearing the mind, and the promotion of wellness and overall well-being.

Massage is Therapy, because...

M	uscle tone improves
A	ssist lymph drainge
S	ofter, more supple skin
S	timulates acupressure points
A	lleviates stiffness and soreness
G	reater flexibillty
E	liminates toxins
I	mproves digestion
S	timulates circulation
T	ension and stress relief
H	elps reduce stess
E	nhaces energy
R	elieves pain
A	ctivates immune system
P	romotes relaxation
Y	outhful vitality

Therapeutic massage
Therapeutic massage uses specific and advanced techniques that focus on pain of problum areas. Muscle aches, chonic pain and injuries are just some of the indications for this type of massage. The intent of therapeutic massage is not to cause pain, but to stay within the patient's comfort level, and is tailored to meet the patient's individual needs so he/she can determine the depth of pressure.

Who recommends
Who recommends the various techniques of massage? Medical doctors, chiropractors,osteopaths, psychologists, surgeons, and other related professionals acknowledge its benefits. Massage is now included in many fitness training routines. Neuromuscular and myofascial Therapy is reimbursable by some insurance companies.

Sources:
1. "What are the benefits of massage", O'Shea, Michael, Amer. College of Sports Medicine, Parade Magazine, p. 27, 10/13/02
2. "Manual Medicine & TCM", Razo, David J., Acupuncture Today.com/archives
3. Brochure - Massage is Therapy