EXPLORING TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE'S ROLE IN PREVENTIVE HEALTH AND ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE: A STUDY FROM PUDONG NEW AREA

Abstract

The Pudong New Area, recognized as a "national comprehensive reform pilot area," has been at the forefront of innovating preventive healthcare services, particularly through the application of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This study aims to explore the integration of TCM in preventive healthcare settings and its potential benefits for enhancing athletic performance and overall physical health. Using a structured questionnaire, we assessed TCM preventive care practices across six pilot units in Pudong New Area. The survey included general information gathering, TCM constitution evaluation, satisfaction levels, and community support metrics. Additionally, interviews were conducted with health administrative personnel, managers of medical institutions, TCM preventive care practitioners, and community residents to gauge the effectiveness of these services and to develop strategies for their optimization. Our analysis seeks to not only provide a snapshot of the current implementation and acceptance of TCM in preventive health but also to highlight its role in supporting and improving the physical conditioning and recovery processes crucial to athletes and active individuals. The findings are intended to inform future strategies for integrating TCM more effectively into preventive health programs and to underline its potential as a valuable component in sports medicine and physical fitness regimens.