Traditional chinese medicine methods in Body & Soul Medical Clinics

Body & Soul Medical Clinics is a private multi-specialty facility in Shanghai. Founded in 2004 by Dr. Doris Rathgeber, the clinic operates two branches in the city. It combines Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Western therapies. Coordinated care is available for international patients in both English and Chinese.

Integrative Medical Services

The clinic has a team of 8 doctors across multiple specialties. The founder, Dr. Doris Rathgeber, specializes in TCM internal medicine. The medical team includes board-certified specialists experienced in both Chinese and Western systems. Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan.

Staff members help patients verify insurance coverage. This process typically takes two to five days. Patients provide their passport and insurance details, and the team contacts insurers directly. The clinic schedules appointments only after receiving a response from the insurance provider.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Fertility

Dr. Yuzo Furukawa heads the TCM department, focusing on internal medicine and mind-body philosophy. Specialists use traditional techniques for chronic and acute conditions:

• Acupuncture including electrostimulation and moxibustion
• Customized herbal decoctions and medicinal powders
• Tuina massage and manual mobilization
• Cupping therapy and acupressure

Fertility support is a key focus for the TCM team. Practitioners use herbal medicine and acupuncture to support patients undergoing ICSI or IVF. This helps with relaxation and physical adjustment during assisted reproduction cycles. The clinic reports higher success rates when patients combine herbal medication with Western hormone treatments.

TCM gynecology specialists also treat menstrual cycle conditions and emotional well-being. Dr. Kayee Chong focuses on integrative medicine for menopause, fertility, and gynecological rehabilitation. Dr. Viviane Li treats endocrine disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and mood disorders using TCM methods.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

The physiotherapy department treats musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, and sports-related conditions. Lead physiotherapist John Zhong is certified by the National Athletic Trainers Association in the U.S.A. The team provides rehabilitation for cerebral palsy and post-surgery recovery. Each therapy plan is based on the patient's symptoms and diagnostic imaging.

Rehabilitation often combines manual techniques with specialized equipment:

• Shockwave therapy for tissue healing
• Kinesio taping to support joints and muscles
• Electro-stretching and medical massage
• Individualized strength training and daily exercise plans

Chiropractic and osteopathy services complement physical therapy. Chiropractic care focuses on drug-free manual adjustments of the spine and joints. Osteopathy treats acute pain through manual techniques – typically once per week. The clinic uses in-house X-ray and ultrasound to guide these treatments.

Mental Health and Psychology

Psychological services are available for children, teenagers, adults, and couples. The department treats depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress. Dr. Jack Hou specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues for expatriates. The team uses several psychological models to address addictions and learning difficulties.

Pharmacy and Diagnostic Technology

The Minhang branch has an on-site pharmacy stocking both Western and Chinese medications. Pharmacists prepare herbal decoctions right after consultations. The pharmacy keeps more than 500 types of Chinese herbs in stock. Chinese medications also come in powder form for easier use.

Diagnostics are part of the treatment planning process. The clinic uses on-site ultrasound for immediate imaging during consultations. For complex cases, partner facilities provide X-rays, MRI, CT, and PET scans. Online consultations are available for patients needing to speak with a rehabilitologist remotely.