The Dr. Tan Balance Method is a style of acupuncture well-known for highly effective treatments utilizing the fewest needles possible. Renowned for quick results in the treatment of pain, the Balance Method is equally effective in treating issues of internal medicine, and is particularly well-suited for treating expecting mothers.
How Does It Work?
The 12 primary acupuncture meridians form a complex system of interrelationships. By way of these relationships, when one meridian is imbalanced (for example, the meridian in which you may be experiencing pain), several specifically related meridians can be used to exert a rebalancing effect.
Why is this Method Well-Suited for Expecting Mothers?
While the Balance Method is effective for both men and women alike, its "less is more" strategy regarding the number of needles makes it an excellent choice for the treatment of pregnant women, as they need relatively few needles to effect powerful results. By primarily using points on the arms and legs, it easy for the pregnant patient to find a comfortable position on her side, while allowing the acupuncturist to easily access all the necessary points for a gentle, yet highly effective, treatment.
Mirrors & Images
Points are selected not only for their classical functions, but also by virtue of whether they relate to the painful or dysfunctional area as a mirror reflection or an image transposition. For example, using points on the hands to treat problems of the feet illustrates the mirror reflection technique, as hands and feet are anatomically similar parts.
Distal Points
Another unique aspect of the Balance Method is that the acupuncture points selected on the balancing meridians are always distal, rather than local, to the site of pain or dysfunction. The practitioner palpates for tender or reactive points on the balancing meridians in the area of the mirror or image. Yin and yang meridians are carefully selected to further facilitate a rebalancing of the system by creating a yin-yang balancing dynamic.
