The idea behind kika is to offer a range of treatments that can help to strengthen one’s core physiological processes, what is known in traditional East Asian thought as the Zheng Qi [Chinese] or Seiki [Japanese]正氣, we could think of it as vital energy perhaps. When this is strong and balanced within us then any number of physical complaints can be more effectively dealt with [bit like coping with life’s stresses after a good night’s sleep!].
Traditional East Asian therapies are mostly person rather than illness focussed so different individuals can respond differently and may require different combinations of treatment. This can make it difficult to know how quickly someone will respond but as a guide to what sort of things we treat, the list below will give some idea of the kind of conditions that can be helped using traditional Chinese medicine in our opinion. Most commonly treated problems include the following:
Muscular skeletal issues – typically back pain, sciatic pain, joint pain [including tennis or golfers elbow, knee problems], neck and shoulder pain and tension etc.
This can include acute sports injuries or more chronic pain presentations due to age, fatigue, or complex immunity related issues [such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis].
Digestive issues – IBS, constipation, reflux, chronic loose stools etc Also food intolerances, bloating etc.
Headaches – migraines, headaches related to hormones, weather, fatigue etc generally respond well to treatment.
Menstrual and fertility related issues – painful periods, PMT, miscarriages, infertility etc. Also menopausal symptoms such hot flushes, stiff shoulders etc.
Emotional issues – depression and anxiety related problems, including palpitations, panic etc
Fatigue – whether as part of a wider range of symptoms such as with ME or while undergoing cancer care, or simply physical and/or emotional exhaustion
Insomnia – problems getting off to sleep or sleep that is too shallow and not restorative
Skin problems – eczema, allergic reactions etc, acne due to diet or hormones
Immunity – poor immunity, catching colds easily which quickly become chest infections, or autoimmune related issues.
Either a combination of treatments or just one of the therapies [such as acupuncture, herbs, massage etc] will be suggested according to what seems to be most appropriate for an individual.