MASSAGE & BODYWORK 

At FLOAT we often incorporate some of the following manual techniques within the course of a session, for 5-15 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.  We do not offer full-body massage sessions, or massage outside of an acupuncture session.  If you are looking for a great massage therapist, we have many referrals to colleagues in the greater Los Angeles area - just ask.

TUI-NA

Tui-Na is an ancient Chinese form of soft tissue and joint manipulation that addresses many types of orthopedic problems.  It is excellent for arthritis, back pain, sciatica, repetitive strain, and carpal tunnel syndrome.  Tui-Na is intense, but not painful.

ACUPRESSURE

Literally, acupuncture with finger pressure.  The same acupoints are used, only with gentle, sustained finger pressure or palm-of-the-hand pressure, instead of needles.  Very effective for children or for patients who are needle-phobic.  

GUA-SA

Pronounced "gwa-sha," this is an ancient scraping technique performed with a flat tool such as a fake buffalo horn over certain areas of the body.  Gua-sa is used to reduce heat conditions such as urinary tract infections and fevers, to reduce inflammation, and treat pain from sprains, strains and fractures. It sounds weird.  It's awesome.

CUPPING

Cupping is an ancient technique in which glass cups are placed on large areas of the body (such as the back or shoulders) to create suction, thus increasing local circulation of blood and Qi. Cupping is excellent for detoxification, reducing inflammation, muscle pain and arthritis.  It also treats fevers, the common cold, flu, and asthma.  The act of cupping leaves behind circular red marks (in the shape of the cups), which are temporary: they last between an hour and a couple of days. Olympian Michael Phelps swears by it.