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Adriano: Multi-cultural masseuse
November 5, 2003
By Angela Lehmann

Adriano studied acupuncture in Xiamen

Lying on your stomach with several needles in your back can be a thought far from relaxing for some people. Let alone not being able to understand what is being done and why. The ability to communicate with your doctor, most would say, is vital. Foreigners in China could be put off trying traditional medicine by the thought of not being able to properly communicate what their problem is and understand why burning cups, for example, are being placed on their back.

Adriano, from Italy, is trying to address the problem of communication with patients and doctors in Xiamen. After studying massage in the USA, Adriano came to Xiamen to study Chinese medicine at the Overseas Education College. He has been living here for six years and now treats patients with acupuncture and massage.

"After studying for a while at Xiamen University I came and studied under Doctor Xiong at the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. With Doctor Xiong's expertise, I learned the practicalities of acupuncture and massage that you can't learn from a book. I would watch and learn from a real Chinese master." He said.

Adriano noticed that when foreigners came to the hospital they were sometimes confused by the treatment or felt they weren't questioned enough about their symptoms before treatment began.

"It's a big difference," he said. The patients tell the doctor what their problem is and treatment begins straight away（马上）. In the West we are used to many questions and sometimes this can cause confusion. Its just a difference in approach, a different way of seeing life"

"I like to get to know people, really understand not just their pain but their lifestyle. If you don't care, how can you cure?" he said.

Adriano's speciality is Shiatsu massage, a type of therapeutic（治疗学） massage originating in Japan. He treats patients locally and when he travels back to Italy.

Jill, from Australia, has been receiving regular massage therapy from Adriano. "I wrenched my shoulder playing tennis and one of my Swedish friends recommended I go to the traditional Chinese hospital and I thought I might try it. I had seven sessions of acupuncture altogether. For my particular problem, I didn't seem to get any relief," she said.

One day, as Jill finished her acupuncture session, Adriano walked passed. He put is hands on her neck and said he thought he could help her.

"It took a couple of months of regular treatment and now I think I am feeling the benefits. When Adriano comes to my house, he can tell when he touches me how long I have been sitting at the computer!"

Helmut, from Germany, also has regular treatments from Adriano. "Adriano asks many questions before he begins. He tries to really understand the problem. I have had massage from him five times now and now my pain is improving." After the treatment Adriano recommends stretching exercises for Helmut to make sure the treatment has maximum effect.

Coming from Italy, studying Japanese massage in America, learning from a Chinese doctor in Xiamen and treating people from all around the world, Adriano is truly a multi-cultural masseuse!

Have a say: Chinese traditional therapy

Kent, 21 years old, USA

What is the first thing you would do if you had a bad back in the USA?

I would go to the GP who would give me painkillers.

Have you ever tried traditional Chinese medical treatment?

Yes, I had acupuncture for a problem with my hip （臀部）. I was a bit apprehensive at first but a Chinese friend convinced me of its benefits. It didn't hurt much at all. I was worried about cleanliness and was told to bring my own needles but it was very sterile and they used disposable needles.

There were some language difficulties because it was six months ago, before I could speak much Chinese. It definitely helps to be able to communicate properly with the doctors.I had the treatment for a problem I have had with my hip where I get on and off pain in cycles. After the accupuncture I felt relief within weeks. I have never tried accupuncture in the USA, and I think its good to try it here in China where it originated.

Kathy, 23 years old, Dalian

What is the first thing you would do if you had a bad back?

I would have massage. I find massage can help a lot with all kinds of problems.

Have you ever had other kinds of traditional Chinese medical treatment?

Yes. I had acupuncture. It was strange, a very different feeling but it helped a lot. I got the treatment because I was having trouble sleeping. They put the needles in my head. It wasn't  painful. Western doctors just give medicine. They want to fix it immediately but then the problem just comes back. With acupuncture I had to go back a couple of times but now the problem is ok. I would recommend it although I know some people believe in it and some don't. I also have had cupping. I love it! It makes me feel very relaxed!