Phase 3: Acupuncture for Exercise Recovery

Phase 3: Acupuncture for Exercise Recovery

TCM treatment in Phase 3 continues to follow the philosophy of treatment for the previous phases with the practitioner utilizing TCM methods and personal experience and expertise to achieve the goals of rehabilitation.  The act of strengthening muscles may produce pain and stiffness,  therefore treatment should be performed to help the patient recover from their exercises as well as to help to execute the exercises successfully.  The maturation of the scar formation involves reorganization of the collagen fibers and breaking down of adhesions.

Many TCM techniques effectively aid this process including tui na, acupuncture, moxa, gua sha, and herbal compresses.  Constitutionally this is the phase where underlying deficiencies become apparent as the relative excess of trauma recedes.  The body has quickly worked to control, repair and rebuild damaged tissue and, emotionally, the patient has been through the ups and downs of sustaining a trauma, temporary restructuring of how they approach their day to day life, and motivating themselves to rehabilitate.

Treatment to address these imbalances and supplement the patient will not only help them successfully achieve their goals for Phase 3 but also prepare them for Phase 4