According to TCM, pain and disease are the result of blockage or imbalance of Qi. Before an illness arises there will be an imbalance of Qi. Blockages to energy flow can result from physical injury or emotional stress. An unbalanced supply of Qi to cells will lead to irregular or unbalanced flow of blood to the blocked area. Cells or organs will begin to malfunction and disease or pain will occur.

Strengthening and balancing Qi flow can improve health and ward off disease. Qigong is believed to remove blockages in the flow of Qi, blood, oxygen and nutrients to all the cells of the body. It also promotes the elimination of waste products from cells. Increases in the flow of Qi and blood nourish diseased or stressed tissue. In this way, and through the balancing of meridian and organ systems, the body is enabled to heal itself.

Medical Qigong consists of internal and external Qigong. Internal Qigong is the cultivation of the flow of Qi through individual practice of Qigong exercises. External Qigong refers to the activity of a Qigong practitioner who has mastered the ability to emit Qi for the purpose of healing another person. Self- training is generally promoted by Qigong healers to maximize the benefit of Qigong therapy.