What Is Bone Setting?

Bone setting, also known as bone alignment, is an ancient practice within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders such as fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries.

At MyTCM & Acupuncture Centre, we employ an integrated approach to diagnosis, seamlessly blending TCM theory with Western assessment techniques. Through meticulous observation, palpation, and pulse diagnosis, we complement traditional methods with physical examinations and X-ray imaging to provide a comprehensive assessment of your injury.

Treatment involves skilled manual manipulation to realign bones and joints, complemented by applying herbal poultices, liniments, or pastes made from ingredients like safflower, angelica root, and myrrh to reduce swelling and promote healing.

After realignment, the injured area is usually bandaged and immobilised with splints, casts, or other supportive devices made from natural materials to maintain proper alignment during healing.

What Are the Benefits of Bone Setting?

Bone setting offers a holistic approach to healing that targets specific injuries and enhances overall well-being.

Pain Relief – Bone setting can provide significant pain relief by correcting misalignments and addressing underlying musculoskeletal issues. This natural approach helps reduce discomfort without relying on pain medications.
Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility – By realigning bones and joints, bone setting improves overall mobility and flexibility. It helps restore range of motion, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.
Non-invasive, Drug-free Treatment – Bone setting is a non-invasive treatment that does not require surgery or drugs, minimising potential side effects. It offers a holistic alternative for those seeking natural healing methods.
Balanced Body – This practice promotes a balanced body by ensuring proper alignment and optimal function of the musculoskeletal system. Improved balance enhances overall well-being and supports the body’s natural healing processes.

Common Conditions Treated with Bone Setting

Bone setting treatment can effectively address various conditions, providing relief and aiding recovery through its unique techniques.

Dislocations and Fractures (Subluxation) – Bone setting realigns dislocated joints and vertebral subluxations, facilitating proper healing and restoring normal function. Practitioners’ skilled manipulation ensures the bones or joints are correctly positioned without causing additional injury.
Sprains, Strains, and Overuse Injuries – This treatment helps alleviate pain and accelerates recovery from sprains, strains, and overuse injuries by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation. Herbal remedies and precise manual techniques aid in restoring mobility and strength.
Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain and Discomfort – Bone setting can relieve chronic pain conditions by addressing misalignments and soft tissue imbalances. Continuous care and adjustment help improve overall musculoskeletal health and pain management.
Arthritis – Bone setting can reduce joint stiffness and pain for arthritis sufferers, enhancing mobility and quality of life. Techniques focus on improving alignment and reducing stress on affected joints.
Vertigo and Headaches – Vertigo and headaches, particularly those caused by neck and spine issues, can be alleviated through bone setting. By correcting misalignments and relieving tension, practitioners help prevent recurrence and reduce headache frequency and severity.

Common Bone Setting Techniques to Align Bones

Bone setting encompasses various techniques to restore proper alignment and function within the musculoskeletal system.

Manual Manipulation – Our skilled practitioners combine manual techniques with advanced equipment to precisely realign bones and joints; this requires precision and deep anatomical knowledge to ensure proper positioning and healing.
Massage – Therapeutic massage relaxes muscles, improves circulation, and eases tension around the injured area. It supports bone-setting by preparing tissues for manipulation and enhancing overall recovery.
Heat and Cold Therapy – Alternating heat and cold applications helps reduce inflammation and pain while improving blood flow to the injured area. Heat relaxes muscles and joints, whereas cold therapy minimises swelling and discomfort.
Splinting or Bracing – After realignment, splints or braces are used to immobilise the affected area and maintain proper alignment during the healing process. These supportive devices stabilise the injury, preventing further damage and aiding recovery.
Herbal Remedies – Herbal poultices, liniments, and pastes are applied to the injured area to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Traditional Chinese herbs, such as safflower and angelica root, are commonly used to promote healing and support the bone-setting process.

What Can You Expect After the Session?

Experience renewed comfort and ease after each session. You can anticipate a noticeable reduction in tenderness and stiffness as your body’s structure realigns. Our treatments facilitate improved blood flow, promoting fasting healing and overall well-being. Many patients also report increased flexibility, improved posture, and a greater sense of balance. While individual results may vary, significant improvement is often seen within 6–10 sessions.

After a bone-setting session, following the practitioner’s care instructions is crucial, which may include rest, limited movement, and specific exercises to aid recovery. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing progress, adjust supportive devices like splints or braces, and incorporate additional TCM therapies such as acupuncture or herbal treatments to enhance recovery and maintain proper alignment.

Bone Setting and Alignment Practitioners in Malaysia

Consulting with a qualified TCM practitioner is crucial for those seeking pain relief and improved mobility through bone alignment. At MyTCM & Acupuncture Centre, our skilled bone setting specialists in Malaysia are trained to diagnose bone injuries and use a combination of techniques to realign bones for proper healing. We are dedicated to providing safe and effective treatments tailored to your specific needs. Explore our website to schedule a consultation and learn how our holistic approach can support your healing journey.

FAQs

Is bone setting effective for all types of fractures?

Bone setting can be effective for certain types of fractures, particularly minor or non-displaced fractures. However, more complex fractures, such as those involving joints or significant misalignment, typically require medical intervention from a healthcare professional. Consult a qualified practitioner to determine the best course of action for any fracture.

How many sessions do I need for a bone setting?

The number of sessions required for bone setting varies depending on the individual’s condition and the severity of the fracture. Some patients may experience improvement in just a few sessions, while others might need ongoing treatment to achieve the desired results. It is best to follow the guidance of your bone setter, who will assess progress and recommend a suitable treatment plan.

How does the chiropractic approach differ from traditional bone setting?

While both chiropractic care and TCM bone setting aim to improve joint health, TCM offers a more comprehensive approach. Beyond manual adjustments, TCM practitioners employ a wider range of techniques, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping. This holistic approach addresses the root cause of discomfort, not just symptoms, promoting lasting pain relief and optimal joint health.