In Chinese medicine, there is a distinction between the prevention and the treatment of illness. Generally speaking, the use of medicine is for the treatment of more serious illnesses of the internal organs. The use of acupuncture is for the treatment of illnesses of the nerves, muscles, blood vessels and blood circulation. Physical exercises strengthen the muscles and help the blood circulation, and also can build up the Jing, Qi and Shen. The most important part of Chinese medicine is preventive medicine.
Illnesses often are a result of irregularities in daily living.
Once the physician understands where the irregularities lie, it is most important for him to help the patient correct such irregularities as he treats the illnesses.