Acupuncture
Acupuncture is used to correct the imbalance and restore harmony in the body by adjusting the amount of Qi flowing in a particular area of the body. This can be done by accessing acupuncture points using acupuncture needles. No drug is injected during the process
Currently, there are 409 acupuncture points established in TCM. These points are either based on anatomical landmarks or based on the individual landmarks such as one palm length from the naval. (1)
Of the 409, 201 acupuncture points are classified as basic. The other 207 acupuncture points can potentially be dangerous if not handled by a skilled and experienced acupuncturist. Below is a chart outlining the number of acupuncture points associated with each organ and important blood vessels. Number of acupuncture points designated varies from 2 to 67 and is independent of the size of the organ or blood vessels. (2)
Currently, there are 409 acupuncture points established in TCM. These points are either based on anatomical landmarks or based on the individual landmarks such as one palm length from the naval. (1)
Of the 409, 201 acupuncture points are classified as basic. The other 207 acupuncture points can potentially be dangerous if not handled by a skilled and experienced acupuncturist. Below is a chart outlining the number of acupuncture points associated with each organ and important blood vessels. Number of acupuncture points designated varies from 2 to 67 and is independent of the size of the organ or blood vessels. (2)
With the exception of some acupuncture techniques, acupuncture for most patients is painless due to the evolution of acupuncture needles. (For more information, go to evolution of acupuncture needles or other related techniques)
When the acupuncture point is stimulated by the acupuncture needle, a dull, heavy or aching feeling can be experienced temporary. This sensation known as ‘de Qi’ is desired as it is considered as one of the markers for how effective the acupuncture is by some traditional acupuncturist. Typically, each acupuncture round last for 15-20mins and during each round, the acupuncturist may adjust the depth of the acupuncture needles, tap or twist the acupuncture needles to adjust the amount and/or alter the flow of Qi in the attempts to restore harmony. (1)
When the acupuncture point is stimulated by the acupuncture needle, a dull, heavy or aching feeling can be experienced temporary. This sensation known as ‘de Qi’ is desired as it is considered as one of the markers for how effective the acupuncture is by some traditional acupuncturist. Typically, each acupuncture round last for 15-20mins and during each round, the acupuncturist may adjust the depth of the acupuncture needles, tap or twist the acupuncture needles to adjust the amount and/or alter the flow of Qi in the attempts to restore harmony. (1)
Reference:
1. What is acupuncture. http://www.afcinstitute.com/AboutAcupuncture/WhatisAcupuncture/tabid/73/Default.aspx. Accessed July 2, 2013
2. World health organization. Updated may 8, 2013. http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Jwhozip56e/3.10.html#Jwhozip56e.3.10. Accessed July 2, 2013
Images - Xin Hua TCM therapy. http://www.xinhuatherapy.com/acupuncture.html. Accessed July 2, 2013
1. What is acupuncture. http://www.afcinstitute.com/AboutAcupuncture/WhatisAcupuncture/tabid/73/Default.aspx. Accessed July 2, 2013
2. World health organization. Updated may 8, 2013. http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Jwhozip56e/3.10.html#Jwhozip56e.3.10. Accessed July 2, 2013
Images - Xin Hua TCM therapy. http://www.xinhuatherapy.com/acupuncture.html. Accessed July 2, 2013