What is Tui Na massage?

Tui Na is a form of bodywork based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Working along meridians (energy channels) throughout the body, the Tui Na practitioner taps into these energy points, using stretches, pressure points, and joint rotations, to balance the body’s vital energy (qi).

The name of this massage therapy comes from the two words describing actions in the treatment: tui means “to push” and na means “to grab or squeeze.” Tui na includes acupressure: where practitioners use finger pressure instead of needles to stimulate the acupuncture points.

When is tui na used?

Tui na is used as a treatment to create harmony in the body. Practitioners use it for many of the same reasons and according to the same principles as acupuncture.

Tui na is frequently used in the treatment of superficial trauma and injury and a wide variety of musculoskeletal problems. Tui na is also often used when acupuncture is inappropriate or touch is preferred over needles.

TCM practitioners may encourage and instruct patients to do self massage and certain exercises at home. This solidifies and expands the benefits created during treatment sessions.