Therapeutic Services

Chinese medicine consists of many different treatment modalities, any combination of
which may be used during your treatment. Below are brief descriptions of these
therapeutic techniques; please feel free to ask questions about the techniques.

Acupuncture uses very fine needles inserted at specific points on the body. These
points are found along channels (also called meridians) which flow all over the body,
forming a network. Gentle stimulation of these points allows vital substances such as
blood and qi (a form of energy in the body) to flow freely, which stops pain, improves
circulation, and promotes healing. This free, unimpeded movement of qi and blood is
the basis of health, and acupuncture seeks to restore this movement to promote
wellness and comfort in both the physical body and the mind.

Chinese herbs are medicinal substances
that may include various plant parts and
minerals. These herbs may be boiled into a tea
or may be administered in pill form. Your
practitioner can prescribe a Chinese herbal
formula that is specifically for you and your
condition. These formulas are usually based on
classic formulas, but may be modified to fit
your specific health needs at any given time.
Herbs are given in various forms; your
practitioner can help you choose a form that
makes sense for you.
  Raw herbs: These are boiled in water to make a tea.
  Granules: Herbs that are ground to a powder, which is stirred into water.
  Pills: Standard formulas that can be purchased in pill or tablet form.

Shoni shin refers to the treatment of children with special tools. Shoni shin treatment is usually well tolerated by children because there are no needles used during
the therapy. Instead, small metal tools of different shapes are stroked over the
meridians to help restore balance, clear heat, and remove pathogens. Children tend to
find shoni shin treatment relaxing and fun! Click
here for a list of pediatric conditions
that can be treated with shoni shin.

Moxibustion (also called moxa) is the burning of an herb called mugwort
(artemesia) on or near the skin. This is done to promote movement of vital substances,
or to warm the body and facilitate bodily functions. Moxa is very safe and most people
find it pleasant and relaxing; some say it feels like lying in the sun!

Tui na is a form of Chinese massage. Tui na, which means "pushing and pulling", is
used to ease muscle strain and improve circulation, and is often used to enhance the
effects of acupuncture. Tui na can be done through the clothing or on bare skin; it
may involve oils or liniments, but can also be performed without any substance on the
skin.

Cupping uses glass cups and gentle suction to draw impurities and pathogens out
through the skin. The cups may be left in place or may be pushed gently over
lubricated skin. Most people find the sensations of cupping
intense but pleasant.

Gua sha creates friction on the surface of the skin to release
pathogens and impurities, and to encourage the healing and regrowth
of injured or damaged tissue. This is done using gua sha tools or a
ceramic Chinese soup spoon over a lubricant, such as Vaseline.
The lubricant is used to protect the skin.

Diet therapy is an important part of Chinese medicine wellness
and healing. It is
important that we make good food choices so that our
bodies can effectively process and extract nutrients for efficient use.
A practitioner can guide you in selecting foods that are appropriate
for your constitution and health needs.

Essential oils are very fragrant and aromatic, and are extracted from a wide
variety of everyday plants, such as grapefruit, lavender, geranium, and cedarwood.
While essential oils are not historically part of traditional Chinese medicine, they can
enhance the effects of treatment. They can also contribute to a pleasant experience
during your acupuncture session.
acupuncture, nyc, new york
copyright 2012 Yunker Acupuncture
Jessica I. Yunker, M.S., L.Ac.
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
57 West 57th Street, Suite 1109
New York, New York 10019

(917) 596-6385
Jessica@YunkerAcupuncture.com
Just for New Patients! Click here to learn about Jessica's offers for
new and prospective patients.