In our practice, we use the term East Asian Medicine rather than Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) even though it is the most common term because of Dr. Ting Wu's comprehensive educational background and clinical experience. Trained under different East Asian practitioners who are experts in their respective fields, Dr. Ting Wu combines traditional medical techniques from China, Japan, and Korea with the current Western treatments to provide top-quality care and effective treatments. East Asian Medicine is a culmination of medical practices from different Asian countries that offer time-tested holistic and natural treatments for various conditions. This thousand-year-old practice has adapted to changes and continues to provide effective therapies to Asia and the rest of the world. By embracing the multicultural approach, we are able to offer a more comprehensive and inclusive perspective on health and wellness.
Acupuncture is an East Asian Medicine technique that uses fine, sterile, single-use needles in different targeted areas of the body to address imbalances and symptoms, and to trigger positive physiologic responses from various organ systems involved. Treating different diagnoses has different acupuncture points. A thorough history taking and assessment is done before the specific points are determined. Most people who seek acupuncture treatments are those who are in chronic pain and have musculoskeletal injuries. Acupuncture treatments can also support those who have issues with their fertility, digestive system, allergies, chronic conditions, cardiovascular system, the immune system, and even mental health. Acupuncture can support not only those with present illnesses but also those who are seeking preventive treatments and general wellness.
Cupping therapy uses glass cups and heat to create a suction on the skin, lift the muscles and fascia to draw out toxins, and stimulate the flow of Qi and blood. Cupping can also release muscle tension, reduce adhesion, break up phlegm, and can also be used for facial rejuvenation. Different cupping techniques are offered depending on your specific condition and goal.
A heating technique, moxibustion uses burning mugwort to regulate the flow of Qi and blood. Moxibustion can be in the form of a moxa stick, moxa cone or can be attached to the acupuncture needle. Moxibustion is usually indicated for some fertility treatments, menstrual pain, and skin conditions like psoriasis. Another effective use of moxibustion therapy is to help turn a breech baby.
Although the current trend focuses on gua sha's effectiveness in depuffing the face to give it a more snatched look, this ancient practice is mainly done on the body to scrape out the skin to improve circulation, draw out toxins, and trigger the body's natural responses. People with seasonal conditions like asthma and common cold would benefit from this treatment. Gua sha is also beneficial for those with muscle tightness and adhesions, especially those with active lifestyles like runners, MMA fighters, tennis players etc.
Tui Na is an ancient bodywork with various techniques to stimulate acupuncture points and meridians to remove the blockages and correct the flow of qi. This restores the balance in the body to address illnesses and injuries. Tui Na is often added to the acupuncture treatment plan of those with PMS, muscle pain and tension, sports injuries, and respiratory system conditions. Other therapeutic effects of Tui Na include pain relief, muscle tightness release, and overall body relaxation.
Herbal medicine therapy uses plant parts such as roots, leaves, and flowers. Sometimes, minerals and animal parts are also included. Herbal medicine formulas are mostly custom-made for each patient, which is why transparency in medical history and currently taken medications are crucial. Herbal medicines come in different forms such as pills, powders, herbal packs (like tea), patches, and alcohol tinctures. Herbal medicine therapy can help patients with both acute and chronic conditions by targeting the root cause of the health problem.
Food is medicine and proper nutrition is vital in improving one's overall health. We provide personalized dietary recommendations, integrating the principles of the ying and yang, the five elements, and the in-season availability. This holistic approach aims to support the body's natural healing processes and balance the body's energy flow.