Gua Sha, Moxa, Cupping
& TDP heat lamp therapies
Gua Sha, Moxibustion (Moxa), Cupping and TDP Heat Lamp therapy are often used during acupuncture treatments to promote healing, relieve pain, and improve overall health. Each of these methods has unique applications and benefits, complementing acupuncture in the holistic approach of TCM.
Gua Sha:
Gua Sha is a technique that involves rubbing the skin with a smooth-edged tool to promote circulation and release toxins. The term "Gua" means to scrape or rub, while "Sha" refers to the reddish, elevated skin rash that results from the treatment.
In TCM theory, Gua Sha is believed to move stagnant Qi (energy) and Blood, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. The technique is commonly used to treat muscle pain, tension, and stiffness, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders. It's also applied to alleviate symptoms of chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and migraines.
The benefits of Gua Sha include:
Pain relief and muscle relaxation
Improved circulation and lymphatic drainage
Reduced inflammation
Boosted immune system
Stress relief
When performed on the face, Gua Sha can have cosmetic benefits, including:
Improved skin tone and texture
Reduced puffiness and dark circles
Minimised appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
How your back may look after Gua Sha, the rash will fade over 3-5 days
Moxibustion (Moxa):
Moxibustion is a heat therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near or onto specific acupuncture points or areas of the body. In TCM, moxa is believed to warm the channels, expel cold and strengthen the body's energy.
There are two main types of moxibustion:
Direct moxibustion: The moxa is placed directly on the skin before being removed.
Indirect moxibustion: The moxa is held near the skin, warming the area without direct contact, or by burning on the end of an acupuncture needle.
Moxibustion is often used to treat:
Cold and stagnant conditions
Chronic pain, especially in joints
Digestive issues
Menstrual cramps and irregular periods
Breech presentation in pregnant women
The benefits of moxibustion include:
Improved circulation
Pain relief
Strengthened immune system
Enhanced digestive function
Hormonal balance
Help with urinary disorders
Warming Moxa stick on patient
Cupping:
Cupping is a technique that uses suction cups placed on the skin to create a vacuum effect. This suction increases blood flow to the area, promoting healing and relieving muscle tension. In TCM, cupping is believed to remove stagnation, whether of Qi, Blood or other bodily fluids.
Cupping is commonly used to treat:
Muscle pain and tension
Respiratory issues like coughs and asthma
Digestive problems
Headaches and migraines
The benefits of cupping include:
Pain relief and muscle relaxation
Improved blood circulation
Detoxification
Enhanced lymphatic drainage
Reduced inflammation
In recent years, facial cupping via facial acupuncture has gained popularity for its potential cosmetic benefits, including:
Increased collagen production
Improved skin tone and texture
How your back may look after cupping, the rash will fade over 3-7 days
TDP Heat Lamp:
The TDP (Teding Diancibo Pu) Heat Lamp, also known as the "Miracle Lamp," is a modern addition to TCM therapies. Invented in China in the 1980s, it quickly became popular in TCM clinics worldwide. The lamp uses a special mineral plate containing 33 elements essential to the human body, which, when heated, emits a unique form of far-infrared radiation.
In TCM theory, the TDP lamp is believed to:
Warm and invigorate the flow of Qi and Blood
Dispel cold and dampness from the body
Promote healing and reduce inflammation
The TDP Heat Lamp is commonly used to treat:
Chronic pain conditions
Arthritis and joint stiffness
Muscle spasms and tension
Skin conditions
Poor circulation
The benefits of TDP Heat Lamp therapy include:
Pain relief
Improved circulation
Reduced inflammation
Accelerated healing of injuries
Relaxation of muscles and soft tissues
Integration in TCM Practice:
In a typical Acupuncture treatment, these techniques may be used individually or in combination, depending on the patient's condition and needs. For example, a practitioner might use Gua Sha to release muscle tension, followed by moxibustion or TDP Heat Lamp therapy to warm the area and strengthen the Qi. It's important to note that while these techniques have been used safely for centuries (or decades, in the case of the TDP lamp), they should always be performed by a qualified Acupuncturist. Each method has specific contraindications and requires proper technique to ensure safety and effectiveness.