Guide for International Patients
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Shanghai: Treatment Guide for International Patients
A guide to Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment in Shanghai for international patients: what TCM treats, acupuncture, herbal medicine and tuina, how to choose an accredited TCM hospital, costs, and how TCM combines with Western medicine in Shanghai hospitals.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an integral part of healthcare in Shanghai: every major hospital has a TCM department, and specialized TCM hospitals practice acupuncture, herbal medicine, tuina (therapeutic massage) and moxibustion alongside modern diagnostics. International patients use TCM for chronic pain, musculoskeletal problems, digestive disorders, fatigue, post-operative recovery and wellness maintenance.
Shanghai's TCM institutions — including Longhua Hospital, Shuguang Hospital and Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine — are national centers of excellence. Treatment usually begins with a TCM diagnosis (pulse and tongue examination) and a personalized plan combining herbal formulas, acupuncture and lifestyle guidance.
MedBridge Shanghai (美加康) arranges TCM treatment at accredited Shanghai hospitals: doctor booking, treatment coordination, herbal prescription management, report translation and 10-language support. Hospital cost and service fee are disclosed separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does Traditional Chinese Medicine treat?
TCM is commonly used for chronic pain, arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions, digestive disorders, insomnia, fatigue, gynecological issues, allergy symptoms and post-operative recovery. In Shanghai hospitals TCM is often combined with Western diagnostics for a comprehensive approach.
What treatments are included in TCM?
Core TCM treatments include acupuncture, herbal medicine (decoctions or granules), tuina massage, cupping, moxibustion and dietary/lifestyle guidance. A personalized plan is designed after a TCM diagnosis by the attending physician.
How do I choose an accredited TCM hospital in Shanghai?
Choose recognized TCM institutions such as Longhua Hospital, Shuguang Hospital or Yueyang Hospital of Integrated TCM and Western Medicine, and verify that the department has international patient services. Your coordinator can book the specialist directly.
How much does TCM treatment cost in Shanghai?
Acupuncture sessions typically cost US$30–80 per session, and herbal medicine courses vary with the prescription. A consultation and initial course are usually a few hundred dollars total. Request a written hospital quote before starting.
Can TCM be combined with Western medical treatment?
Yes. Shanghai's integrated hospitals combine TCM and Western medicine for conditions such as post-stroke rehabilitation, oncology supportive care and chronic disease management. Discuss with both your TCM physician and Western specialist to coordinate the plan.
How long does a TCM treatment course take?
A typical course runs 2–6 weeks with weekly visits; chronic conditions may need repeated courses. Acupuncture sessions last about 30–45 minutes, and herbal formulas are usually adjusted at each follow-up visit.
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