Although it might sound weird or funny, Tui Na massage is actually a form of massage. It has been practiced in China for over 4000 years. It is essentially a form of massage that is applied on the superficial layers of the skin. Tui Na is also known as Na Fu, or Hand Stick massage. It can be traced back to an earlier form o massage called Tui Na (Wind and Water Massage) which was used thousands of years ago by Chinese emperors. Today, Tui Na is still employed as a method of massage by Chinese people.

Tui Na is an alternative therapy that is similar to Acupuncture. There aren't any bandages or needles involved. In fact, tui-na massage is often described as a form of energy therapy, or simply as an art form. As a branch of classic Chinese medicine it's frequently employed in conjunction with traditional acupuncture moxibustion, acupressure, fire cupping, Chinese herbs, tai chilli or any other Chinese method of internal medicine. It can also be used in conjunction with Qigong.

Tui Na is part of a long line of Chinese remedies that are referred to collectively as "Fo-Gi". The name itself suggests that these forms of alternative medicine originate from ancient China. Some forms of this medicine can be considered part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This traditional method of treatment has been adopted by Western doctors and practitioners of massage therapy in a variety of forms.

Massages are intended to relax and restore flexibility. It is done by reaching deep into the skin's layers to reach the deeper muscles supporting it. The stratum corneum is the outer layer of the skin. Myofascial release is achieved by gently pressing into the fascia in which tight muscles are located.

Massage chairs have made it possible to provide massage treatments using techniques that use myofascial releases. Certain conditions require the use of special rollers to penetrate deep into the tissue. This method is typically used for joint replacement, repair of soft tissue, and for increasing flexibility in certain muscles. Massaging movements can penetrate deep into the bone and target specific muscles. The rollers are made out of soft or leather and are held close to the body in such that they can be easily controlled. The rolling motions utilize the body's natural power to push the massage chair back towards the user.

Acupuncture is yet another type of Chinese medicine that is utilized to massage chairs. Acupuncture is based upon the belief that pain is caused when there is an imbalance. Needles are injected into specific locations to correct the imbalance. Acupuncturists believe that needles release natural chemicals within the body that ease discomfort and pain. These needles can be used together with other techniques. The needles are able to be guided to pressure points to encourage healing in the area targeted. Some patients find this form of treatment to be very effective in treating mild to moderate pain.

Although massage therapists are qualified to administer these treatments, they also have the ability to incorporate Chinese medicine into their work. Massage chairs come with integrated devices that perform acupuncture on the patient during the massage. Chinese medicine is more holistic than western approaches and massage therapists can incorporate the use of a variety of Chinese herbal products in their treatment for clients. Massage chairs usually include an acupuncture block as a part of the therapy.

There are many benefits of receiving acupuncture and Chinese medicine regularly. Massage therapy can boost blood circulation and boost the effectiveness of the lymphatic system. Massage also enhances the capacity of the body to heal itself by focusing on the mechanical tissues of the body. Chinese medicine targets muscles to increase flexibility, strength, energy and vitality. It is not uncommon for a patient to undergo multiple treatments with Chinese medicine and massage in order to obtain optimum results. A trained massage therapist is able to offer patients the benefit of a comprehensive bodywork program designed to improve wellness, health and mobility.