Tui Na (pronounced "toy-nah") is an Asian Bodywork Therapy that has been used in China for 2,000 years. It utilizes manual techniques to treat various energetic imbalances which may result in disease. This is achieved by:
- Removing obstructions to the flow of energy (Qi) throughout the body.
- Promoting an increase in Qi and blood circulation.
- Realignment of joints.
- Healing of soft tissue injuries.
- Adjusting internal organs.
- Regulation of nerves.
- Mobilization of joints.
External herbal poultices, compresses, liniments, and salves are also used to enhance the other therapeutic methods. The history of Tuina extends several thousand years. References to Tuina techniques are mentioned in the oldest surviving records of Chinese medicine.
Tui Na has a variety of different systems that emphasize particular aspects of these therapeutic principles.
The main schools in China include the rolling method school which emphasizes soft tissue techniques and specializes in joint injuries and muscle sprains. The one-finger pushing method school emphasizes techniques for acupressure and treatment of internal diseases. The Nei Gong method school emphasizes the use of Nei Gong Qi energy generation exercises and specific massage methods for revitalizing depleted energy systems. Finally, the bone setting method school emphasizes the manipulation methods to realign the musculoskeletal and ligaments relationships, and specializes in joint injuries and nerve pain.
