Whether you are injured, unwell or simply looking for a relaxing massage, Tuina can help. Tuina is one of the four branches of Chinese medicine, alongside acupuncture and moxibustion, herbalism and dietetics and Qi Gong. It is a deeply penetrating and vigorous massage therapy. A Tuina practitioner works on the muscle groups, joints and sites of pain or tension, increasing the flow of blood and nutrients to weaker areas of the body and breaking down any adhesions or scar tissue. Like acupuncture, Tuina can also be used to stimulate the many points of the bodies energetic channels. This dramatically increases the effectiveness of the treatment and the range of conditions that can be treated, from joint pain and RSI to a lack of energy and symptoms caused by stress or emotional problems. Tuina is practiced through a cotton sheet with oils generally only used on the extremities. As there is no need to undress, it is an ideal therapy for those in a rush.

Used in many of the hospitals of China, on the frontline of healthcare, Tuina has become very advanced in its treatment for many diseases. It is renowned for its effectiveness in the treatment of musculo-skeletal conditions such as: 

It is also effective for internal problems like:

Questions and Answers

What makes Tuina different? Some of the techniques used in Tuina may be familiar to you. Others will be a pleasant surprise! Not only can a practitioner work directly on the muscle groups and joints, but also the body's energetic channels and corresponding points. This dramatically increases the effectiveness of the treatment and the range of conditions that can be treated.

What will my first treatment be like? Before the treatment, the practitioner will explain what Tuina is and how it works. You will then be asked some simple questions to ascertain the level of injury or disease and the strength of your constitution.

The treatment can be carried out with the patient lying face-up, face-down or in a seated position. You will be guided to the appropriate position and then covered with a cotton sheet, through which the various massage techniques will be performed. Depending on the treatment required, herbs, moxibustion, cupping or oils may also be used.

After the treatment, advice can be given on diet and lifestyle. Remedial exercises may also be prescribed to speed up the healing process and to strengthen your body and constitution in general.

Do I need to undress? For a general massage, you will only need to remove your shoes. Exposure of areas such as the arms, legs and midsection may be necessary if herbs, moxibustion, cupping or oils are to be used.

Is it painful? The massage is very firm. If treating a particularly problematic area, techniques which are more deeply penetrating and vigorous may be used. This can be painful, especially where there is scar tissue that needs to be broken down. However, discomfort is optional and those more interested in a relaxing or recreational massage, should not feel discouraged.

How often? There is really no limit to how often you can receive a treatment. Tuina is an effective way to:

We should all be receiving a Tuina treatment at least every 6-8 weeks. Those who are pushing their body to its limits, such as athletes and dancers, who cannot afford to stay out of action, should be receiving treatments far more frequently!