Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Bloor West Village
About Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, is an ancient holistic system made up of many complementary components. These include acupuncture, Chinese herbal remedies, Tui Na massage, moxibustion, Tai Chi, Qigong and Chinese nutrition principles.
Its fundamental principle is that the body should be in balance and is based on the concept that energy flows through invisible pathways or meridians. In TCM, blocked pathways may be associated with illness, discomfort, and physical or emotional imbalance.
At TX Health Centre, TCM may be used on its own or alongside acupuncture, Registered Massage Therapy, cupping, herbs, or bodywork depending on your needs.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Herbs
Chinese herbs are an essential part of TCM and are often used with acupuncture to support chronic or long-standing health concerns.
There are unique principles behind Chinese herbal medicine. As many as 20 different types of herbs, in precise quantities, may go into making up a formula. The different herbs have to be carefully chosen to ensure they work synergistically with each other.
Small quantities of herbs may be used to reduce the possibility of side effects or to account for medical prescriptions or supplements. All portions are custom-designed for the individual patient.
Learn more about related care options on our Acupuncture and Our Services pages.
Personalized Herbal Formulas
It is an essential part of TCM practice to monitor not just the overall condition of the patient but also to detect subtle and minor changes that may indicate progress. The quantities of herbs used, or even the number of ingredients in a formula, may be changed in keeping with the changing needs of the patient.
There is no one-size-fits-all in TCM. At TX Health Centre, care is prescribed according to individual needs.
We offer dried herbs, from which patients can make a tea, as well as tablets, capsules, pellets, powders and ointments. Some patients are willing to take dried herbs and boil them to make a concentrated tea.
We understand that patients have busy lives, so herbal remedies may also be offered in a concentrated powder form that can be added to hot water and stirred. On average, herbs are taken twice a day, though some may require more frequent intake.
For pricing details, visit our Rates page.
Chinese Herbal Remedies
Herbal formulas may be customized to the individual, adjusted over time, and used as part of a broader Traditional Chinese Medicine care plan.
Acupuncture and TCM
Acupuncture is one part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and may be combined with herbs, cupping, moxibustion, Tui Na or lifestyle guidance.
Whole-Body Care
TCM considers symptoms, constitution, energy, digestion, sleep, stress, pain patterns and overall balance when shaping a treatment plan.
Other TCM Therapies
In addition to Chinese herbal remedies and acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine may include cupping, Tui Na massage, moxibustion, Qigong, Tai Chi and Chinese nutrition principles.
Your practitioner may recommend one or more TCM therapies depending on your symptoms, comfort level and care goals.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping is a TCM therapy that may be used after an acupuncture session or sometimes as a substitute. It seeks to stimulate pressure points along the body, such as on the back, by applying suction through a glass cup.
Traditionally, the acupuncturist lights a match to withdraw air from the cup and create a vacuum. The cups are placed along energetic pathways and are used to bring energy to the surface, stimulating the flow of qi in the process.
We may use a single cup for small areas or several cups over a wider area of the body. Sometimes, cups are moved over large flat areas in a process known as gliding cupping.
Any discoloration on the skin from cupping is temporary.
Tui Na Massage
Tui Na massage is another branch of TCM therapy. It is a form of bodywork that uses precise techniques and body manipulations such as holding and pressing down on pressure points, gliding, pulling, knocking or shaking to stimulate energy.
Tui Na massage treatments may be preferred by patients who are uncomfortable with needles, including some children or seniors. Although it may look like a combination of Shiatsu and Swedish massage, Tui Na works from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective.
It goes beyond the muscles or bones, focusing instead on energy distribution and flow throughout the body. Tui Na may be used to target specific concerns such as chronic pain from sciatica, back pain, tension in the neck and shoulders, and joint pain from arthritis.
Tui Na may also be considered for chronic concerns such as migraines, headaches, constipation or insomnia, with the goal of restoring and balancing energy.
If you are looking specifically for massage therapy from a Registered Massage Therapist, visit our Massage Therapy page.
What TCM and Chinese Herbs May Support
This is by no means a complete list. Feel free to ask us about any conditions or concerns you may have.
This information is not a diagnosis or a guarantee of results. Your practitioner will review your individual health history and symptoms before recommending a care plan.
Choosing the Right TCM Appointment
Rates and Treatment Options
Treatment prices vary depending on whether your appointment includes consultation, acupuncture, cupping, Chinese herbs or another TCM therapy.
Questions Before Booking?
If you are unsure whether to book Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, cupping, herbal support, Tui Na or massage therapy, contact the clinic and we can help you choose the best starting point.
Acupuncture
Learn more about acupuncture, what to expect during treatment, and how it may fit into a TCM care plan.
Registered Massage Therapy
Massage therapy may be a helpful option for patients seeking support with muscle tension, soreness, stress, postural strain and relaxation.
All Services
Compare acupuncture, TCM, cupping, herbs, Tui Na and massage therapy on the full service overview page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traditional Chinese Medicine
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, is a holistic system of care that may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal remedies, cupping, Tui Na massage, moxibustion, Tai Chi, Qigong and Chinese nutrition principles.
How are Chinese herbal remedies chosen?
Chinese herbal remedies are selected based on the individual. Your practitioner may consider your symptoms, health history, constitution and changes over time before recommending or adjusting an herbal formula.
Can TCM be combined with acupuncture?
Yes. Acupuncture is one part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and may be combined with Chinese herbs, cupping, Tui Na, moxibustion or lifestyle guidance when appropriate.
What is cupping therapy?
Cupping is a TCM therapy that uses suction through cups placed on the body. It may be used after acupuncture or as a separate therapy, depending on the patient’s concern and comfort level.
How do I know whether to book TCM, acupuncture or massage therapy?
The best starting point depends on your symptoms, comfort level and goals. If you are unsure which service to book, contact TX Health Centre and the clinic can help you choose an appropriate appointment type.
Visit TX Health Centre
Email Us
info@txhealthcentre.com
Call Us
416-535-8588
Visit Us
2272 Bloor St. West 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON, M6S 1N9
(We’re on the 2nd floor above The Ten Spot)