Traditional Chinese medicine is one of the oldest continuous systems of medicine in history, with recorded instances dating as far back as two thousand years.

 

Chinese medicine is quite complex and can be difficult for some people to comprehend. This is because TCM is based, at least in part, on the Daoist belief that we live in a universe in which everything is interconnected. What happens to one part of the body affects other parts of the body. The mind and body are not viewed separately, but as part of an energetic system. Similarly, organs and organ systems are viewed as interconnected structures that work together to keep the body functioning and in balance.

 

Many of the concepts emphasized in traditional Chinese medicine have no true counterpart in Western medicine. One of these concepts is qi (pronounced "chi"), which is considered a vital force or energy responsible for controlling the workings of the human mind and body. Qi flows through the body via channels, or pathways, which are called meridians. These meridians correspond to specific organs, organ systems or functions. Imbalances in the flow of qi cause illness; correction of this flow restores the body to balance.   However, Qi isnt the only thing TCM focuses on.  Qi, blood, body fluid, yin, yang and of course the proper function (or homeostasis) of all organs is key. 

 

Many people often equate the practice of acupuncture with the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This is not entirely true. While acupuncture is the most often practiced component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is simply that – a component, an important piece of a much larger puzzle. Traditional Chinese Medicine encompasses several methods designed to help patients achieve and maintain health. Along with acupuncture, TCM incorporates adjunctive techniques such as acupressure and moxibustion; manipulative and massage techniques such as tuina; herbal medicine; diet and lifestyle changes; meditation; and exercise (often in the form of qigong or tai chi).  So you may see multiple different designations for TCM Healthcare workers including: 

 

• Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.) - a registrant authorized to practice acupuncture only.

• Registered TCM Herbalist (R.TCM.H.) - a registrant authorized to prescribe, compound or dispense Chinese herbal medicine only.

• Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCM.P.) - a registrant authorized to practice acupuncture;  AND prescribe, compound or dispense Chinese herbal medicine.

• Registered Doctor of TCM (Dr. TCM) - same as R.TCM.P with an additional year of training

 

Although the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine can be complex, there is little doubt of TCM's effectiveness. Studies have reported on Traditional Chinese Medicine's success in treating a wide range of conditions, from nausea and vomiting to skin disorders, tennis elbow and back pain. Many Western-trained physicians have begun to see the benefits Traditional Chinese Medicine and have even begin to offer patients a symplified form of acupuncture — at least on a limited basis -- as part of their practice. More North Americans are also using acupuncture, herbal remedies and other components of Traditional Chinese Medicine than ever before. The reasons for this vary, but the increasing interest in, and use of, TCM is due in large part to its effectiveness, affordability and lack of adverse side-effects compared to more "mainstream" or Western medicine.   Fortunately, others are also embracing TCM and looking at healthcare from a different point of view.