Pain and Tuina Treatment (Chinese Massage)

Tuina, also spelled tui na, is an orthopedic massage method rooted in Chinese medicine that has been practiced in China for more than five thousand years. It is sometimes called “the ancient healing art of fingers and force,” and today it is gaining growing international attention as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions. The massage suits people of every age, from infancy to old age, and serves as a flexible therapeutic tool for both acute and chronic pain.

The Tools a Tuina Therapist Uses

A tuina therapist uses the fingers, hand, elbow, knee and even the foot to apply pressure at precise points on the body. According to an article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, this method complements Chinese medicine and uses rhythmic massage techniques along the body’s energy channels, aiming to create a harmonious flow of qi and restore balance. By applying pressure to the meridians, to acupuncture points, and to groups of muscles and nerves, the therapist releases blockages in the body and works deeply with the patient’s positive, vital energy.

The Technique of Tuina Treatment

A tuina session combines various manual techniques, sometimes alongside acupuncture and additional manipulation methods. To enhance the healing process, the therapist may also recommend the use of Chinese herbal medicine. Many of the techniques used in this massage resemble those of Western massage, such as kneading, rubbing, vibration, tapping, friction, pulling and rolling the palm over different areas of the body. The muscles and tendons are worked by hand, and pressure on acupuncture points directly affects the flow of qi in the area, clearing blockages and keeping energy moving through the meridians and into the muscles.

Session Length and What to Expect

An average tuina session lasts between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the patient’s needs and condition. Patients remain dressed throughout the treatment, and it is best to wear comfortable, light clothing. The session may include soft-tissue massage, gentle manipulations, pressure on acupuncture points combined with herbs and ointments, and warming of the painful areas. One of the treatment’s notable benefits is that it relaxes the body while simultaneously strengthening its overall energy.

The Benefits of Tuina Treatment

The main advantage of tuina massage is its ability to focus on a specific problem, whether it is acute pain or chronic pain related to the joints, muscles or skeletal system. The technique is especially helpful for reducing pain in the neck, shoulders, hips, back, arms and legs, as well as for joint disorders such as those affecting the ankle. It is considered particularly effective for arthritis, pain, sciatica and muscle spasms.

• Stress-related disorders, such as insomnia and headaches
• Digestive issues, including constipation
• Respiratory system disorders
• Fertility-related difficulties

Beyond that, tuina’s greatest strength is its focus on maintaining overall balance between physical and mental health, which makes it especially suitable for those who wish to avoid the side effects of medication. Thanks to its focus on each patient’s specific problem, rather than general treatment alone, tuina has become an increasingly popular and sought-after method in recent years.

Scheduling Treatment

Shai Davids, owner of the Machat Ruach complementary medicine clinic in Jerusalem and Ramat Gan, combines tuina with acupuncture and herbal medicine according to each patient’s needs. If you are dealing with pain or ongoing tension and think this treatment method may suit you, feel free to get in touch and schedule a consultation.