Tui-Na (推拿 tuī ná) translates roughly to "Push-Grasp" and reflects the pushing and pulling actions of this soft tissue therapeutic massage and body work. Although Tui Na can have calming and relaxing effects on the body, it is typically used for specific diagnostic patterns in TCM theory. Tui-Na includes a technique popularly known as "acupressure" which is a treatment that focuses on localized pressure rather than needles to obtain a theurapeutic effect. Acupressure and Tui-Na are often substituted in cases where acupuncture may be inappropriate such as in pediatric cases.
At a glance, Tui-Na can seem very similar to a massage, however it's important to make a distinction. Tui-Na is grounded in TCM theory and, in addition to local musculature, takes into account channel theory and facilitating the free flow of "Qi" or circulation. While a massage therapy session may be relaxing on most occasions, Tui-Na should only be used in response to a specific TCM diagnosis.