Are you confused about the difference between Japanese and Chinese style Acupuncture ?
Essentially Acupuncture originated in China, thousands of years ago and over time Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) spread to other parts of Asia, predominantly, Japan, Korea and Taiwan.
The roots of Japanese Acupuncture therefore originate in China however over the years, each country has developed it’s own unique styles and techniques that sets it apart from the other.
In a nut shell, Japanese Acupuncture involves a lighter and more gentle needling style as well as a large focus on using touch as a diagnostic tool. The reason for this is that once upon a time in Japan, Acupuncture was only studied and practiced by those who were vision impaired which meant that a diagnosis was formed based on what the Acupuncturist could feel.
Palpation of the abdomen (also known as the Hara) and 12 main meridians/channels form a very important part of the diagnosis which is very unique to this style.
Radial pulse reading is also a crucial diagnostic element and together all of these diagnostic measures helps the Acupuncturist form an opinion/idea around which channel/s require treatment.
Any treatment applied will always be checked against these areas to ensure that the person is responding well. There is feedback at every step which informs the Acupuncturist as to how the treatment is progressing.
You will notice that when you experience a treatment by a Japanese style Acupuncturist, your pulse, abdomen and 12 main meridians/channels will be repeatedly checked to ensure that the treatment is having the desired effect.
Are Japanese Acupuncturists as qualified as Chinese Acupuncturists ? Japanese Acupuncture
Japanese Acupuncturists in Australia are all fully qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). In addition to a 4 year Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine degree, Japanese Acupuncturists have gone on to do post graduate study in various styles of Japanese Acupuncture. Some of the known Japanese Acupuncture styles include: KMS (Kiiko Matsumoto Style), Manaka Protocols, Toyohari Acupuncture and ‘The Wisdom of Nagano Sensei Style’ all of which Michelle has studied and is accredited in.
Does Japanese Acupuncture hurt ? Japanese Acupuncture Brisbane
Japanese Acupuncture is very well suited to those who might be a bit needle shy or sensitive.
It uses finer needles and a lighter, more gentle needling style than Chinese style Acupuncture which makes for a very gentle and deeply relaxing experience.
In fact, some styles of Japanese Acupuncture do not involve needle insertion. Instead the tip of the needle sits over the skin but does not penetrate it. The patient does not feel the needle at all which is really ideal for those who are needle phobic but would still like to receive Acupuncture.
If you are curious about Japanese style Acupuncture, I invite you to give it a try. You will not be disappointed. If you have had Acupuncture before and you did not find it comfortable or pleasant then I strongly encourage you to try Japanese Acupuncture and in particular Toyohari style Acupuncture. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about this style of Acupuncture.