Traditional Chinese Medicine in Shanghai: Acupuncture, Herbs & English-Speaking Clinics

Sooner or later, living in Shanghai, someone will suggest you try traditional Chinese medicine for a stiff neck, a lingering cough, or plain stress. TCM is woven into daily life here, from acupuncture and cupping to herbal prescriptions and tuina massage. If you are curious but unsure where a foreigner even begins, here is a friendly map: what is on offer, where to go for English-comfortable care, and what a first visit actually feels like. A quick, honest framing before we start: TCM is a long-standing medical tradition many people find genuinely helpful for comfort and wellbeing, and it works well alongside, not instead of, conventional care for anything serious. Nothing here is medical advice. For acute or worrying symptoms, see a doctor first, and our guide on seeing a doctor in Shanghai covers that route. What does TCM actually include? Acupuncture (针灸): fine needles placed at specific points, often used for pain, tension, and recovery support. Cupping (拔罐): glass or silicone cups that create suction on the back and shoulders, leaving the round marks you have probably seen at the pool. Gua sha (刮痧): gentle scraping of the skin with a smooth tool. Herbal medicine (中药)…