Tuina massage is a form of massage therapy that originated in Ancient China. Practitioners claim it may help circulation, reduce muscular and joint pain, and reduce stress.

Tuina, or Tui Na (pronounced twee-nah) massage originated in China. Along with acupuncture, qi gong, and Chinese herbal medicine, it’s one of the four main branches of traditional Chinese medicine.

It’s based on the theory that imbalances of qi, which is the body’s vital life force or energy, can cause blockages or imbalances that lead to symptoms such as pain and illness.

Tuina massage is similar to acupuncture in that it targets specific acupoints, but practitioners use fingers instead of needles to apply pressure to stimulate these points. Tuina massage is often used in combination with acupuncture.

The philosophy and principles of Tuina massage are based on traditional Chinese medicine, which focuses on the emotional and physical components of a person’s well-being, as well as aspects such as climate, relationships, and diet.

The underlying philosophy of Tuina massage is that true health is achieved when one finds harmony and balance within oneself and one’s environment.

The goal of Tuina massage is to create harmony in the body’s yin and yang by eliminating blockages and disturbances that manifest as illness, disease, and emotional issues.

During a session, practitioners use oscillating and pressure techniques that differ in force and speed. Tuina massage can be done as a stronger deep-tissue massage or a more gentle, energetic treatment.

Tuina massage uses massage techniques such as acupressure, myofascial release, and reflexology. Sometimes, techniques that are common to osteopathy and chiropractic, such as stretching and joint mobilizations, are also used.

There are eight basic techniques used in Tuina massage:

  • palpating (mo)
  • rejoining (jie)
  • opposing (duan)
  • lifting (ti)
  • pressing (an)
  • kneading (mo)
  • pushing (tui)
  • holding (na)

Other techniques include:

  • Rolling: This is used for injuries such as sprains and strains.
  • One-finger technique: This is one-finger stimulation of acupressure points.
  • Nei gung: This is a full-body manipulation technique.

Practitioners claim Tuina massage treats various pains and ailments and promotes overall good health. It’s often used for conditions and injuries related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

Since Tuina massage is considered to be an alternative treatment, it’s essential that you talk with your doctor before using it to treat any medical condition.

Tuina advocates claim it can aid in the treatment of:

Tuina massage has many reported benefits, ranging from improved blood circulation to joint pain management. However, many of these reported benefits rely on anecdotal claims or small, low quality studies, and more research is necessary to fully assess the efficacy of Tuina massage.

While scientific backing is lacking for Tuina massage, people may still find it to have benefits.

Boosts blood circulation

One of the main intentions of Tuina massage is to boost blood circulation by stimulating the body’s energy flow. A small 2015 study indicates that yi zhi chan Tuina manipulation on BL 56 acupoint is effective in improving circulation.

However, larger studies are needed to expand on these findings.

Reduces neck pain

Tuina massage may relieve neck pain and the accompanying tension, tightness, and irritation. A 2018 study concluded that Tuina massage is a cost-effective option for reducing pain in people with chronic neck pain. People who received six Tuina treatments within three weeks reduced the intensity of their neck pain more than people who had no treatment.

Relieves low back pain

Tuina massage may be able to relieve lower back pain, especially when treatment is paired with core exercises. Researchers in a 2016 study found that Tuina massage was more effective when combined with core stability exercises in people with low back pain.

Managing depression

A 2015 review of studies concluded that Tuina massage has a therapeutic effect on depression. A small 2022 study similarly found that regular Tuina massage may help improve depression symptoms in people following a stroke.

However, more high quality studies are needed to confirm and expand on these findings.

Promotes healthy lactation

Practitioners may recommend Tuina massage to encourage postpartum lactation.

The results of an old 2012 study showed that Tuina massage on breasts increased the quantity of lactation compared to women who received only conventional treatment.

Though no significant difference was found between the groups in terms of delaying the decrease of prolactin levels, researchers believe Tuina massage could have a positive effect in this area. It could help new mothers produce greater quantities of milk more quickly.

Managing osteoarthritis

The therapeutic benefits of Tuina massage may aid osteoarthritis symptom management.

According to a small 2011 study, it improves muscular tension of the flexor and extensor muscles in people with knee osteoarthritis. The treatment used gun, an, na, and ca maneuvers. The patients received treatments three times per week over the course of nine months.

Manage carpal tunnel syndrome

According to a small 2010 study, Tuina massage may aid in relief from carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

People with carpal tunnel syndrome who received warm-needling acupuncture in addition to Tuina massage showed significantly more improvements than people who were treated using hormone block therapy and medication.

Manage musculoskeletal disorders

People report that Tuina massage may aid function and reduce pain affecting the joints, bones, and muscles.

A 2017 review and meta-analysis reported that Tuina may be effective in relieving pain, especially compared to traction, medication, and physical therapies.

Evidence to support better function wasn’t as strong as pain reduction. Further research is needed to expand on these findings.

Benefits foot issues from diabetes

Tuina massage may be beneficial for people with diabetes who have foot issues. A 2018 study found that Tuina massage combined with a Chinese medicine foot bath was therapeutically beneficial for people with early stage diabetic foot.

Tuina massage is a safe treatment and is generally well-tolerated. However, remember that it’s not a gentle or relaxing massage, and you may feel some discomfort during or after a session. Slight bruising is possible.

It’s not recommended for people who have fractures or are prone to fractures, vein inflammation, or any type of open wound. It’s also not recommended for people with chronic back issues, such as ankylosing spondylitis.

If you have any health concerns, talk with your doctor before adding Tuina massage to your treatment plan. Your doctor may recommend that you use Tuina massage as a complement to conventional treatment.

Additionally, they may recommend another alternative treatment to be used alongside Tuina massage. Talk with your doctor if you experience any adverse effects or changes to your condition after a Tuina treatment.

Tuina massage is a form of complementary massage therapy that practitioners claim may help circulation and reduce muscular and joint pain.

However, there is a lack of quality studies supporting its use. Speak with a doctor before engaging in any for of complementary therapy.