Traditional Chinese Medicine (Article written for Shanghai Family)

The Philosophy of Balance:

A Closer Look at Traditional Chinese Medicine

“The leaves of the tree are many but the root is one. When the root is firm the branches flourish.” -Chinese Proverb

Like any modern city, living in Shanghai presents a number of unique challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of city life, especially in an often enigmatic environment, is deciding how to appropriately and effectively address your health concerns. Coping with and managing any illness is critical to making life in Shanghai a feasible, long-term option. But, with a wealth of medical alternatives readily available nowadays, deciding whether to use traditional methods, modern techniques, or to take a more integrative approach can be a real dilemma. In general, Western medicine is closely associated with science, whereas Eastern medicine is more holistic. Considering this, a 2008 study from “The World Health Report” revealed Asia to be a leader in overall life expectancy. For over 3,000 years, China, and parts of Japan and Korea have been healing people “the natural way”, through the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

The Philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine

If you’re familiar with TCM, you may have heard that its foundation was built on a vague or outdated framework of theories revolving around religious and philosophical beliefs. Though considered “alternative” medicine to some, over 35% of the world’s population (roughly 2 billion people) seek TCM as their primary source of healthcare, and Chinese medicine is increasingly spreading in usage worldwide. According to a report conducted by CNN in 2001, American consumers were largely responsible for this increase, who, reportedly, made more visits to non-traditional health care providers (425 million), than to conventional doctors (388 million).

TCM incorporates a wide range of ancient practices that first originated in China, but were later introduced to, and are now practiced in locations like London, Los Angeles and New York. A Chinese practitioner is specifically trained in how to diagnose and treat illnesses using a combination of age-old methodologies and modern ‘scientific approaches.’ Before a treatment can begin, a patient’s medical history including their emotional, dietary, mental, physical and metaphysical make-up must be taken into consideration.

Based on the philosophical framework of Taoism (Daoism) dating back to 206 BC, TCM is hinged on the principle teachings of the “Three Jewels of Tao,” which embrace the virtues of love, moderation and humility. Physicians are reminded to keep this doctrine at heart when performing any sort of treatment. Simply stated, it is not the condition alone that is under examination, but the very essence of the individual’s wellbeing.

Unity Creates Wholeness and Wellness

Yin and yang are considered universal forces of health in both treatment and life, because all bodily interactions (communications, movements and changes) are regulated by these two inner-related forces. Yin embodies the very nature of vibrancy, energy, femininity and movement. She is cold and dark, and cannot see or touch the world or the body. Yang on the other hand, is hot, composed of matter, and depends on yin’s strength to create energy. In essence, yang clings to the body’s core and prevents organic diseases, whereas yin focuses on the body’s peripheral and confines functional illnesses. By uniting yin and yang, the creation of Chi (qi, 气) produces harmony and health. Though the belief that all souls have a naturally propelling “energy flow” encompassing ambition, power and even weakness, Chi is not unique to Eastern medicine, since Plato famously called the term “humours.” Any imbalance or blockage of energy flow between the meridians (经络) may result in illness. Open meridians and proper blood flow can be attained through the practice of acupuncture and other herbal treatments, leading to restoration and a healthier immune system.

What to Expect During a Consultation?

On your initial visit to any Western clinic, a medical report and an inquiry will be addressed concerning your health and medical status. However, you should expect a TCM practitioner to ask more in-depth and extensive questions related to health and lifestyle choices. According to Phil, a certified TCM doctor with over eight years of experience stated, an initial consultation should begin with examining the tongue and taking a pulse diagnosis. Next, you’ll be asked “The 10 Questions,” and based on the diagnosis, a doctor can tell, for example, that sweating may reveal a body’s lack of vitamins, whereas frequent headaches around nightfall might indicate a deficiency in yin or blood flow. The frequency or duration of treatments typically depends on the patient’s condition and the therapy administered. Patients usually seek help for 3 to 6 months, says Doris Rathgerber, Body & Soul Medical Clinic’s internal medicine specialist. 

What Treatments are Available?

TCM’s axiological treatments include: acupuncture, moxibustion (the use of moxa, or mugwort herb), herbal medicine, tui-na (Chinese massage therapy), tai chi and qigong (physical and mental exercise).

As the most popular treatment, acupuncture addresses many complaints including, but not limited to, back pain, asthma, sinusitis, PMS, menopause and hair loss.  Acupuncture is the practice of stimulating specific areas (or acupoints) along the body’s 12 meridians to create an equal distribution of energy flow throughout the blood vessels. Early traditional Chinese physicians discovered that by using long, slender needles, blocked energy could be released, curing internal problems. Currently, acupuncture can be administered without the use of needles through meridian therapy, electronic stimulation; laser acupuncture and pressure massage treatment. According to Doris Rathgeber, acupuncture treatments are effective 90% of the time, and help to alleviate factors beyond typical acupuncture diseases like muscle and joint pain. Acupuncture also helps patients lose weight or stop smoking!

Moxibustion may be a different TCM therapy than acupuncture, but many of the same ailments are addressed. This fetid remedy is predominately popular in treating chronic spells of weakness. Moxibustion is a foul-smelling mixture of aged, precisely ground and burnt mugwort. Shaped like a gigantic cigar, Moxa stimulates circulation and increases blood flow by incorporating both direct and indirect applications on acupuncture points. Among many things, this has been used to treat colds and cold-like symptoms by warming up the meridians, and it is used on breech babies before childbirth, turning a baby’s body upside down while still in the mother’s womb.

When applied directly, one end of a Moxa stick is lit and held on the skin’s surface until signs of effectiveness are displayed, usually producing redness. Due to pain and swelling, indirect treatments (applied above the skin) are more widely practiced. While considered safe, Moxa should never be used in cases of heat-related illnesses such as fevers. Unfortunately, Moxa also produces a lot of smoke, and those with respiratory problems should substitute it with the use of a smokeless stick.

Herbal treatments are popular worldwide; take for example, St. John’s wort, a supplement used to reduce symptoms of depression. Since it’s a natural substance, the popularity of this drug has grown immensely over the years, due to its limited side effects. The use of a single herb, or the combination of several herbs (typically 5 to 15) that are mixed together and altered into a pill or liquid form, is the practice of herbal medicine. Depending on factors such as a patient’s preference and a treatment’s potency, herbs can either be administered by a TCM doctor or self-induced. Diseases like immune deficiencies, fatigue, menopause, indigestion, allergies and respiratory conditions are all treatable with herbs; for example, garlic is a natural supplement used to fight bacterial infections, whereas hawthorn increases metabolic activity and decreases muscle spasms. Herbal medicine is taken for its natural form, non-addictive properties and its ability to support the immune system. However, negative interactions do exist; in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology’s February 9 2010^th issue, patients should avoid mixing certain heart-related prescriptions with herbal remedies. The combination of warfarin and ginkgo biloba, for instance, could produce excessive bleeding.

Meaning to ‘push or grasp in English, Tui-na (pronounced ‘twee-nah’) is a popular form of Chinese massage therapy. Using a map of meridians, a massage therapist can locate points of Chi throughout the body, and when pressure is applied, energy is restored. For those that are squeamish, Tui-na is a wonderful option because needles are not used at all. Common chronic pain such as whiplash and tennis elbow are all treatable using Tui-na, as are other muscular or skeletal injuries.

Tai Chi (or Taiji) is a popular fitness exercise among active adults and is the movement form of Qigong. It’s also the only TMC treatment that’s not practiced in a clinic, but it can be learned through independent studies or practicing schools. Since it’s an effective physical, mental and spiritual activity, Tai Chi creates and controls energy as meditative art therapy. Through the incorporation of activities based on pushing and pulling, the body’s internals and externals are strengthened. It has also been known to decrease anxiety and depression, improve circulation and flexibility, and according to May 2009’s Harvard Medical School Health publication, Tai Chi is linked to the reduction of motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, reduced pain in people with arthritis, decreased pain associated with breast cancer, and can lower blood pressure and hypertension. Though it’s been argued that Tai Chi can take a lifetime to learn, organizations such as “Tai Chi Easy” (an instructional video series) have created simplified versions of the movement to assist the average person in taking up the practice.

Benefits and Considerations

The long-established practice of TCM is beginning to shift in practice throughout the world, and is now administered in many Western treatment centers. Given its convenience and accessibility, (ie.: herbs can now be take in “pill” form), as well as its recent fusion with modern science, only now is it beginning to receive the praise it has long deserved. TCM does more than support the body-it also creates physical strength and aids in mental alertness. When practiced faithfully, activities like Tai Chi can develop concentration, aid in mental preparedness, and lead to a more fulfilling life. Additionally, clinical treatments appear to play a major role in the restoration and recovery process of particular diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease and diabetes. As with any form of medicine, however, negative interactions can and have occurred. Herbal supplements have been known to counteract some medications, and you should consult your family doctor before considering any form of TCM. Additionally, individuals who have experienced blood clots (i.e.: deep vein thrombosis), are on warafarin, or have diabetes, should be careful when practicing Tui-na. Given a better understanding of TMC, and an appreciation for its philosophical framework, you might consider what you are missing without it.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shanghai Clinics and Treatment Centers

Provided is a list of English-speaking treatments centers.  Among Shanghai’s leading facilities include:

• Parkway Health

Parkway Health specializes in a number of diverse treatments including TCM and Western medicine. To find a facility in your vicinity, check their website.

Fees: 900/3,500k (average cost per treatment: 1,700k)

Location: Multiple

Phone Contact: 6445-5999

Website: www.parkwayhealth.cn

• Body Talk Traditional Chinese Medicine Spa

Among the hustle and bustle of daily life, Body Talk offers luxurious treatments in Moxibustion, oil treatments, herbal medicines, and even boasts a Chrystal stone room intended for detoxification. Currently, enjoy a 20% discount found on their website.

Fees: 480/680k (for each treatment)

Location: 2/F, 6 Dongping Road

Phone Contact: 5465-9120

Website: http://www.body-talk.com.cn (The site is in Chinese, but an English version is under construction; English pamphlets are available at the clinic)

• Body & Soul Medical Clinic

Recent renovations have made their clinics, even more outstanding, and their genuine eagerness to serve the expat community through a wide range of TCM and Western treatments have helped Body & Soul establish a leading presence in Shanghai.

Fees: Initial consultation runs 820/720k (each subsequent treatment)

Location 1: Huangpu Center, An Ji Plaza, 14/F, 760 Xi Zang Nan Road

Phone Contact: 21-5101-9262

Location 2: Minhang Center, Bi Lin Wann II Phase, 880 Zhong Yi Road

Phone Contact: 21-6461-6550

Website: http://www.tcm-shanghai.com/

• Klinoerth Therapy Clinic

The Klinoerth center has it all, from a wide range of TCM treatments to educational psychology courses, speech therapy activities and counseling sessions.

Fees: Initial consultation runs 700/1000k (each subsequent treatment)

Location: Room 1819, No. 500, Xiang Yang S Road

Phone Contact: 21-5466-2621

Website: http://www.klinoerth.com/

Hangzhou’s Clinic and Museum

• Guang Xing Tang TCM Center

Featured in the June 7 2010^th edition of Shanghai Daily, this clinic specializes in TCM treatments, medicinal foods, medications and even serves a 10-course meal featuring some of China’s healthiest remedies.

Fees: Varies

Location: 2 Shuangyanjing Lane

Phone Contact: 8788-1600

Website: No website

• Hu Qing Yu Tang TCM Museum

Although this establishment does not offer TCM treatments, this museum is for those seeking more information about TCM.  It holds a number of exhibitions about TCM’s history and fundamentals and offers an adjacent medical store.

Fees: Varies

Location: 95 Dajing Lane, Hangzhou

Phone Contact: 0571-8781-5209

Website: http://www.hqyt.com/gb/enterprise/index.html (The museum’s specialty shop website, Chinese only).