Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a complete health care system that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbs, nutrition, massage, exercise and meditation. The beauty of Chinese medicine is that it is a participatory medicine. The patient is just as responsible for their health as is the practitioner. So when you go to see a licensed acupuncturist, they might give you some homework to do such as stretches, acupressure massage to relieve your pain, diet (foods to use, foods to avoid), breathing exercises or meditation.
What is unique about Chinese medicine is that it is tailored to the individual based upon your specific diagnosis. We can prescribe foods as well as Chinese herbal formulas that will not only assist you with your health problems but also improve your general well being…more energy, a better disposition, and just feeling good!
Recently Twin Cities’ Edge Magazine interviewed Steven Sonmore on the subject of self care and Chinese medicine. Read it in full at http://soulofthecities.net/2010/06/chinese-medicine-self-care/
Steven Sonmore, LAc is a licensed acupuncturist in Minneapolis, Minnesota with over 20 years experience of health care and pain management.
So glad we did that interview! You are a great resource for the Twin Cities!