What is the primary focus of tui na, a form of Chinese medical massage?

The primary focus of tui na, a form of Chinese medical massage, is on therapeutic pressure and manipulation. This method emphasizes the use of acupressure points, specific techniques, and movement to address various health concerns by promoting the flow of qi (energy) within the body and balancing the body's systems. Tui na practitioners often apply deeper pressure and manipulation to target underlying issues, such as musculoskeletal pain, and to facilitate healing by stimulating circulation and improving organ function.

While deep relaxation, gentle stretching, and joint cracking may be components of various massage techniques, tui na specifically centers on manipulating soft and hard tissues using a variety of motions and pressures to achieve therapeutic benefits. This targeted approach distinguishes tui na from other relaxation-focused modalities, underscoring its role in traditional Chinese medicine as both a preventive and healing practice.