uina incorporates a wide variety of massage techniques traditionally used in China and is now spreading across the world. Tuina is a professional branch of Chiense medicine which uses hand manipulations (massage) for therapeutic reasons.

The hand techniques utilize a variety of principles in their application to specific disorders. They can be divided into several categories of therapeutic effect. These categories include oscillating methods, pressure methods, passive joint movement, pinching or plucking methods, and Qi emitting methods.

• Oscillating Methods rely on the development of a kinesthetic wave pattern through repetitive movement. This movement generates a rhythmic wave pattern that penetrates deeply into the body and activates the circulation of Qi and blood. This wave also effects the nervous system. Pressure is a seconday aspect of this principle
• Pressure Techniques rely on the use of force to develop either a static pressure, an alternating pressure, or a release/moving pressure. These techniques are used to facilitate the removal of obstruction, relieve Qi and blood stagnation, and harmonize the flow of Qi and blood.
• Passive Joint Movement features the use of range of motion to help restore functional anatomy and re-educate the nervous system. It also helps relieve Qi and blood stagnation.

• Pinching or Plucking Techniques are applied to the skin, tendons, or muscles. These techniques feature pulling and lifting either quickly or moderately to effect the tonus of the skin, tendons, or muscles to increase range of motion of joints.
• Qi Emitting Methods utilize light to moderate pressure on acupoints and the concentration and extension of Qi through the palm or fingers of the practitioner. This can be combines with specific breathing patterns and pressure combinations. The intention is to active the flow of Qi through a specific acupoint or channel. The direction of Qi movement can also be affected by either pushing or pulling with the Qi.

The goals of the hand techniques are to disperse, tonify, activate, harmonize, and warm the Qi and blood. These goals are achieved by varying rate, pressure, and duration of a Tuina treatment. The combination of Qi extension with the specific hand techniques produces a more pronounced effect.