We provide personalized care with a focus on your health.
3070 Wellner Dr. NE
Rochester, MN 55906
(507) 218-3095
Alternative Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a health care system that is rooted in the ancient philosophy of Taoism. TCM originated in China, where it has been practiced for over five thousand years as the primary form of health care. It is now widely practiced across the United States in conjunction with Western medicine, or as an alternative to it.
TCM is all about balance. The ancient Chinese considered the human body as an organic entity that is ruled by yin and yang – two opposing, but complementary forces that shape the world and all life. A vital energy or life force, referred to as qi, flows throughout the body within a system of pathways called meridians. TCM works to maintain the circulation of qi, and to reconcile yin and yang, which can be knocked out of balance by disease.
At Rochester Clinic, we offer a variety of services. TCM is inherently individualized, and therefore treatment is determined by the careful evaluation of each patient’s unique condition. We can help you to maintain or restore your health without the use of prescription drugs. We can also work with your physician to integrate TCM with conventional (Western) medicine.
Evaluate health condition with traditional Chinese Medicine. Integrate with Western Medicine. Maintain or restore your health without adding prescription drugs.
We offer the following services:
Acupuncture - Acupuncture is a treatment that stimulates the body most commonly with the insertion of thin metal needles in specific points along the body’s surface. This can clear any blockages in the meridians or in the flow of qi, as well as bring internal organs into harmony. It is common way to eliminate pain from ailments such as nerve injury, muscle atrophy or visceral disease.
Moxibustion - Moxibustion is a treatment where a cone or stick of moxa – a wormwood based medicine – is burned on or near the skin at certain acupuncture points. This can warm meridians and expel cold, and induce the smooth flow of qi and blood. It is particularly effective in treating ailments such as lower back pain and gastrointestinal disorders. It is suitable for long-term care, and is often used as an alternative to acupuncture for patients with a fear of needles.
Cupping - Cupping is the application of a vacuumed cup (made from bamboo, pottery or glass) to the skin to form suction. The muscle absorbs this negative pressure, clearing the meridians and restoring blood circulation of qi. This can relieve the body from pain, cold, dampness, and fever. It is particularly effective for muscle and tendon sprains, back pain, and neck or shoulder fatigue, and can be used alone or in conjunction with acupuncture and moxibustion. Furthermore, like moxibustion, it can be used as an alternative to acupuncture for those who are afraid of needles.
Chinese Herbal Medicine - Chinese Herbal Medicine makes use of thousands of plants and herbs; as well as occasionally mineral and animal extracts in its treatment of disease. Different parts of the plants are used – such as leaves, stems, roots, flowers and seeds – and each has its own set of functions and characteristics, which work to restore the body to balance. The medicine is administered in the form of decoction, extracts, pill and bolus, Chinese patent medicine – depending on each patient’s condition and preference. The benefits of traditional Chinese herbal medicine include no toxic side effects, no drug resistance, and no drug dependence.
Food and Nutrition Guidance - Diet can have a profound effect on health and the balance of energy in the body. Certain foods have specific characteristics that enhance or accelerate the treatment of particular diseases, and can complement therapy. A personalized diet plan will help to adjust the balance of yin and yang, and ultimately contribute to a more comprehensive and holistic treatment of the body.
Herbal Tea - TCM is as much about prevention as it is about treatment. The daily consumption of herbal tea is an effective way to prevent disease, and to enhance the treatment of those who may be chronically ill. Herbal tea is not medicinal in that it does not deliver drugs to treat a disease, but has long-lasting benefits that prevent and cure it.
Tai Chi Education - Tai Chi is a mind-body therapy that is also a form of physical exercise. Based on the I Ching (or Book of Changes), an ancient Chinese foundational text, Tai Chi is a system of gentle movement used to reduce stress and help the body rehabilitate from chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, gastrointestinal diseases, kidney disease, lumbar muscle strain, rheumatism, and more. It is a regimen that is suitable for all ages, and can be done both indoors and outdoors.