Other Therapies

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 Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may either be left in place or moved along the body. Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation. Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as “fire cupping," uses heat to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, cups that use a small pump to create suction have also been introduced. 

Please note, in our clinic we use either silicone or plastic cups with a small pump. We do not perform fire cupping. 

 Acupressure is an ancient healing art developed in Asia over 5,000 years ago that uses the fingers to press key points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body’s natural self-curative abilities. When these points are pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the body’s life force energy to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses gentle but firm pressure.

Advantages of using acupressure include relieving pain, balancing the body and maintaining good health. The healing touch of acupressure reduces tension, increases circulation, and enables the body to relax deeply. By relieving stress, acupressure strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.

Acupressure focuses on muscles in the back, arms, hands, shoulders, neck and head, where tension and pain often build up in desk-bound staff working under pressure. Acupressure uses more than 100 different stress release points on the head, neck, shoulders, arms and back. This is intended not only to relax tense and aching muscles, but to release energy and invigorate both mind and body.

Hot stone massage is an ancient massage technique that is performed using warm volcanic stones. The stones may be placed on the body at strategic points to offer pain relief, relaxation, and to promote emotional and physical well-being. 

 Reflexology is a non-invasive treatment in which pressure is applied to reflex points on feet, hands or ears, although we specialize in foot reflexology. Stimulating these reflex points helps promote relaxation, improves circulation, stimulates vital organs and encourages the body's natural healing processes. Most people find reflexology to be very relaxing. 

  Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), sometimes called manual lymphatic therapy, uses light touch to move excess lymph and fluid out of the tissues and back into the lymphatic vessels. Although often referred to as a type of massage, MLD is very different from traditional forms of massage that rely on deep and rigorous rubbing. 

 Gua sha is a natural, alternative therapy that involves scraping your skin with a massage tool to improve your circulation. This ancient Chinese healing technique may offer a unique approach to better health, addressing issues like chronic pain. Gua sha is intended to address stagnant energy, called qi, in the body that practitioners believe may be responsible for inflammation. Inflammation is the underlying cause of several conditions associated with chronic pain. Rubbing the skin’s surface is thought to help break up this energy, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Gua sha is generally performed on a person’s back, buttocks, neck, arms, and legs. Your practitioner may apply mild pressure, and gradually increase intensity to determine how much force you can handle. 

 Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment. 

 Aromatherapy is based on the usage of aromatic materials, including essential oils, and other aroma compounds, in order to improve psychological or physical well-being. It is offered as a complementary therapy or as a form of alternative medicine.