A successful alternative physical therapist combines Chinese medicine with western physical therapy. As a Chinese immigrant, living in China for 10 years during my childhood, I used to attend Tai Chi classes with my mom everyday for our exercise routine. Ever since I was a little kid, I have learned much about Chinese medicine and various treatment methods, including qi (the underlying principle of energy in traditional Chinese medicine), acupuncture, cupping, and Tui-na.
An alternative physical therapist incorporates different skill sets including chiropractic techniques, acupressure points, and massage. We focus more hands-on and manual modalities to manipulate various areas of the body, such as the vertebrae of the spine and peripheral joints, to change incorrect alignment within the body.
Treatment rehab:
Phase 1:
Chinese medicine is similar to western physical therapy in Phase 1 of rehab. Ice and elevation. It is suggested to use treatment to move qi and blood systemically and control swelling when the injured area is immobilized. Treatment should also be done to control tissue temperature. Chinese medicine also incorporates herbs, liniments, poultices to decrease swelling in the area.
Phase 2:
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The Graston Technique (see photos) and SASTM Method are licensed techniques that utilize patented instruments to reduce adhesions and improve function and are worth highlighting because of their similarity to gua sha. Gua sha is a Chinese treatment where the skin is scraped to produce some light bruising, which releases unhealthy elements from injured areas and stimulates blood flow and healing. The results of using the Graston Technique or the SASTM Method are decreased pain and adhesions, increased range of motion and function, and decreased swelling. Like gua sha, the patient can experience local bruising or redness as a byproduct of treatment.
Physical therapy techniques includes ROM (range of motion), isometrics or other therapeutic exercises to improve strength, range, and functional movement. If the joint is involved, joint mobilization is used, PNF, muscle energy technique, or movement assessment.
Phase 3:
Strengthening phase is improving functional movement with weights, proprioceptive cues, increase stability and improve mobility. Resistive exercises are used to load each muscle to build strength and prevent re-injury.
Using acupuncture technique in phase 3 monitors any difficulties or discomfort the patient may be experiencing as a result of the home exercise program. Scar formation involves collagen fiber reorganization and breaking down of adhesions. Many TCM techniques effectively assist this process including tui na, acupuncture, moxa, gua sha, and herbal compresses.
written: Dr. Cindy Zhang, DPT
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