Developing over three thousand years, Chinese Medicine is a fully integrated, comprehensive medical system.
Early in its history, Chinese physicians discovered a substance called Qi (“chee”). Over time Chinese physicians were able to map specific pathways that Qi flowed along. These pathways are also connected to the internal organs.
Anytime the flow of Qi is disrupted in the pathways or in the internal organs function is impaired. As function is impaired, dysfunction is expressed by the individual. That is to say “The patient has symptoms.” By observing the dysfunction one can determine the nature and cause of disease. If cause is never determined then the patient has no hope of recovery.
Chinese Medicine is a functional medicine, meaning health and disease are determined via observation of the bodily functions of the patient. Status of function is determined through verbal questioning, physical examination, and viewing the tongue and feeling the pulse. Once the cause of the dysfunction is determined steps are taken to rectify the situation at the source and not simply chase symptoms.
Chinese Medicine uses five different methods to treat disease and maintain and nourish their health. These methods are: acupuncture, herbal medicine, tui na manipulative medicine, nutrition, and qi gong exercise.