Although it might sound weird or funny, Tui Na massage is actually a form of massage. In actuality, it has been practiced for over 4000 years in China. It is a form of massage that targets the superficial layers. Tui Na also referred to as Na Fu or Hand Stick Massage, is a different name for it. Its origin can be traced back to an ancient form of massage called Tui Na (Wind and Water Massage) which was used by the Chinese emperors thousands years long ago. Chinese people still use Tui Na as a type of massage in contemporary times.
Tui Na is an alternative therapy that is similar to Acupuncture. However, there are no needles or bandages required. Tui na can be described as an energy therapy technique or as an art form. It is a part of traditional Chinese medicine and is often utilized together with moxibustion fire cupping, Chinese herbs and tai-chi and other Chinese forms of internal medicine.
Tui Na is one of the Chinese medicines known collectively as "FoGi". Go to the website The name itself implies that these types of alternative medicines originate in ancient China. Certain forms of this type of medicine are a part of what we call TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). This traditional method of treatment has been adopted by western doctors and practitioners of massage therapy in many forms.
The purpose of any massage is to relieve tension and restore flexibility. This is accomplished by penetrating through the superficial layers of the skin to the muscles that support it in the deeper layers. (The superficial layers of the skin are known as the stratum corneum). It is believed that the key to myofascial release is to gently press into the fascia where tight muscles are situated.
Massage chairs can now offer massage treatments using techniques which make use of myofascial relaxation. In certain situations, specially designed rollers are utilized on the rollers to go deep into the tissue. This method is used to repair joints, replace joints soft tissue, as well as increase the mobility of certain muscles. Massages can penetrate into the bone and target specific muscle groups. The rollers are generally made of soft or leather and are held close enough to the body to be controlled. The massage chair is pulled away from the client through the rolling motions.
Another aspect of Chinese medicine that is used in massage chairs is acupuncture. Acupuncture is based on the belief that pain is caused by imbalance , and that this imbalance can be corrected by injecting needles in specific areas of the body. Acupuncturists believe needles release natural chemical substances in the body that ease discomfort and pain. The needles can be utilized in conjunction with other methods. For example the needles are guided into pressure points where they will trigger healing in the targeted areas. Some patients find this form of treatment extremely effective for mild to moderate pain.
While massage therapists are able to administer these treatments, they also have the ability to incorporate Chinese medicine into their work. Massage chairs can be fitted with devices that permit the application of acupuncture to clients while they are massaged. Chinese medicine is holistic and could include the use of a variety of Chinese herbal products in the treatment for the client. A typical component of massage chairs is an Acupuncture block.
There are many benefits of receiving acupuncture and Chinese medicine regularly. Massage therapy can help improve blood circulation and increase the effectiveness of the lymphatic system. Massage also increases the capacity of the body to heal itself by focusing on the mechanical tissues of the body. Chinese medicine targets muscles to improve the flexibility, strength and vitality. It is not uncommon for a patient to undergo multiple treatments with Chinese massage and Chinese medicine to achieve optimal results. A trained massage therapist is able to offer patients the benefit of a complete bodywork program that is designed to improve wellness, health and mobility.