Usually, several treatment methods in addition to Chinese or Japanese style acupuncture are used during an appointment. Treatments in addition to or as alternatives to acupuncture may include:

Example of cupping treatment

Cupping: placing glass or plastic cups on areas of the body with mild suction. This is especially useful for muscle tension or pain, or respiratory problems.

Gwa sha: rubbing the skin over muscles with a smooth tool to release tension.

Moxibustion: a form of heat therapy where a Chinese plant product (mugwort) is placed on needles, small shields or the skin and gives a gentle warmth. Another form of moxibustion  is a cigar-sized stick (called a moxa pole) that is moved around the needles or above the skin.

Asian Body Therapy:  Chinese tui na, Japanese shiatsu, Thai bodywork or acupressure may be used in addition to needling or other techniques.

Non-insertive needling:  a Japanese style of acupuncture where a blunt needle touches the skin to activate acupuncture points. A form of this type of treatment is called Shakuju.

Chinese herbal medicine:  plant and mineral products in formulas taken as pills or powdered teas. These specifically treat your particular health problem.