From the Guidelines
Tui Na is a traditional Chinese massage therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using various hand techniques, and it is recommended for improved pain outcomes in musculoskeletal conditions, with a moderate strength of recommendation 1.
Overview of Tui Na Procedure
The procedure typically begins with the practitioner examining the patient to identify areas of tension or imbalance. During a session, which usually lasts 30-60 minutes, the therapist uses techniques such as pressing, kneading, rolling, pushing, and pulling along meridian lines to stimulate qi (energy) flow and restore balance.
Key Techniques and Principles
Specific techniques include tui (pushing), na (grasping), mo (rubbing), and an (pressing). The practitioner may focus on acupressure points similar to those used in acupuncture but without needles. Patients remain clothed during treatment, and oil or lotion is rarely used.
Mechanism and Benefits
Tui Na works by improving circulation, releasing muscle tension, and stimulating the body's natural healing processes. It's based on traditional Chinese medicine principles that view health as a balance of yin and yang energies flowing through meridian pathways. This therapy is particularly effective for musculoskeletal conditions, stress reduction, and improving overall energy flow, though intensity can be adjusted based on individual needs and conditions.
Clinical Evidence and Recommendations
According to the most recent and highest quality study, massage, including Tui Na, may be used with standard treatment for improved pain outcomes, with a moderate strength of recommendation 1. This suggests that practitioners should generally follow this recommendation but remain alert to new information and be sensitive to patient preferences.
From the Research
Tui Na Procedure
The Tui Na procedure, also known as Traditional Chinese Massage, involves various techniques to promote healing and relaxation. Some key aspects of the procedure include:
- Manual manipulation of soft tissue to restore balance and promote healing
- Use of various techniques such as pressing, rubbing, and kneading to stimulate blood flow and relax muscles
- Focus on specific areas of the body to address particular health concerns, such as pain or stiffness
Applications of Tui Na
Tui Na has been used to treat a range of health conditions, including:
- Cervical radiculopathy: Studies have shown that Tui Na can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with cervical radiculopathy 2
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A case report found that combined Tui Na and Western medicine treatment improved pulmonary function and quality of life in a patient with ALS 3
- Chronic nonspecific low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Tui Na therapy for patients with CNLBP 4
Comparison with Other Therapies
Tui Na has been compared to other therapies, such as:
- Cervical traction: Tui Na alone or combined with cervical traction has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with cervical radiculopathy 2
- Western medicine: Combined Tui Na and Western medicine treatment has been found to improve outcomes in patients with ALS 3 and may be effective in treating CNLBP 4
- Massage therapy: While massage therapy, including Tui Na, may lead to some improvement in pain, stiffness, and functionality scores in the short term, the evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity amongst trials and small sample size of the studies 5