Gua Sha is a cutaneous technique used in Asian medicine, where skin is pressured, in strokes, using a round-edged tool often made of jade, bone, or porcelain. An excellent technique for common cold and general muscle strain, Gua Sha has the effect of bringing circulation and warmth to the superficial muscle layers, opening the pores, and relieving tightness and spasms that cause pain. Gua Sha results in small red petechiae, called “Sha,” which normally disappears within 2-3 days.This is just one of the many eastern alternative medicines that our San Jose, Santa Clara area eastern alternative medicine professionals provide. 
 

Cupping is another ancient technique that deals with the body surface. A vacuum is created within a glass or bamboo cup, which is placed over specific skin areas. The reduced air pressure in the cup creates suction on the skin and superficial muscles. The therapeutic effect of cupping varies, but this technique is widely used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and congestion; arthritis; gastrointestinal disorders; and certain types of pain. Cupping allows for increased blood flow, bodily obstruction and adhesion breakdown, as well as clearance of toxins. 
 

Qi Gong (“chee kung”), translated as “life-force work,” is an ancient Chinese meditative art that often uses slow graceful movements and controlled breathing techniques to promote circulation of Qi and Blood throughout the body and enhance overall health. Many of the exercises may be done seated, standing or lying down without movement; however, visualizations are an important aspect of all Qi Gong practices. A regular practice of Qi Gong can enhance immunity, strength the core, improve respiration and heart function, and bring peace of mind. 
 

Herbal medicine can be a safe, natural, and effective health care option for many sports related complaints in conjunction with acupuncture and chiropractic care. Our Santa Clara. San Jose area eastern alternative medicine professionals know what’s best. Chinese external herbal medicine can be especially helpful for orthopedic and musculoskeletal problems, trauma-induced injury, and skin conditions. In such cases, alcohol, water, or oil-based liniments may be applied to the skin in order to promote circulation, relieve pain, and hasten recovery. These are commonly used in martial arts, where contusions as well as tendonitis and other soft tissue disorders often occur during and after training. Internal herbal treatment can also promote healing of trauma-related and overuse injuries, in addition to relieving arthritis and nerve-type pain. Again, the major physiological effect of the herbs is to regulate blood circulation, as well as to reduce inflammation and swelling in acute cases, and balance all the body systems thereby promoting self-healing and recovery. 

Please call our San Jose / Santa Clara area office for more information about the Eastern Alternative Medicine that we provide.