Cupping is used to move Qi and blood in the muscles, joints and channels helping to alleviate pain and improve circulation. The suction from the cup draws up skin and fascia to release myofascial and soft tissue tension.

The cups can be static or gliding. Cupping feels like a reverse massage, for most patients, this is a particularly relaxing & relieving sensation.

Gua sha uses a smooth-edged tool to apply repeated even strokes over the skin. Gua sha increases microperfusion in the area treated (1). This causes the release of chemical mediators which increase blood circulation, decrease nerve irritation and decrease inflammation (2).  This helps relieve pain. Gua sha is effective for neck pain (3) and is also commonly used to relieve muscle tension and on the lower back & thighs for relief of sciatic pain.

Moxa is a modality of Chinese medicine. Moxa is a preparation of leaves from the mugwort plant ground up to a 'fluff' and then burnt. It can be used directly on the skin to warm acupuncture points before needling or to warm a larger area using a moxa stick. Research has focussed on the use of moxa for relief of osteoarthritis knee pain (4) but patients find it beneficial for other forms of arthritic pain and discomfort. 

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a form of acupuncture where a small current is passed between two needles. It can induce an analgesic effect on the central and peripheral nervous system (5)(6). It is used for pain management as it promotes the release of endogenous neurotransmitters, such as beta-endorphin, serotonin & dopamine, all natural analgesics (7)(8)(9) . EA may help to stimulate the body's healing process (10)(11)(12) and effect blood flow making it a useful treatment to relax muscles and repair tissue damage.

Tui na is a therapeutic form of massage based on the principles of Chinese Medicine. It works with the channels and acupuncture points to promote and invigorate the flow of Qi and blood to release & relax fascia & soft tissue and facilitate the movement of joints. It is an effective form of treatment for digestive and gynaecological problems when using abdominal release techniques. Patients find Tui na to be both a stimulating and relaxing treatment.