What is ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is based on the belief that the body has energy pathways, known as meridians, through which a vital energy called qi flows. According to traditional Chinese medicine, when there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of qi, it can lead to illness or pain.

Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes by restoring the proper flow of qi. The needles used in acupuncture are typically made of stainless steel and are very thin, ranging from 0.12 to 0.35 millimeters in diameter. They are inserted into specific points on the body, depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient’s needs.

Acupuncture has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, arthritis, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and infertility, among others. It is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments.

The traditional Chinese Diagnosis Method

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnosis methods involve several techniques to evaluate a patient’s physical, mental, and emotional state. These techniques are used to understand the patient’s underlying pattern of disharmony and help develop a personalized treatment plan. Some of the main diagnostic methods used in TCM include:

1. Observation: The practitioner observes the patient’s physical appearance, including the complexion, tongue, eyes, and body shape. This is done to assess the patient’s general health and to identify any signs of imbalance or disease.

2. Listening and Smelling: The practitioner listens to the patient’s voice, breathing, and body sounds, as well as any unusual smells emitted from the body. These observations can provide clues about the patient’s underlying condition.

3. Inquiry: The practitioner asks the patient about their medical history, lifestyle, diet, and emotional state. This helps to understand the patient’s current condition and any contributing factors.

4. Pulse Diagnosis: The practitioner feels the patient’s pulse on both wrists and uses this information to evaluate the patient’s energy levels, organ function, and overall health.

5. Palpation: The practitioner may palpate the patient’s abdomen, back, or other areas to assess any areas of tenderness, tension, or swelling. This can provide information about the patient’s underlying condition.

By combining these diagnostic methods, the practitioner can identify the pattern of disharmony in the patient and develop an individualized treatment plan. The treatment plan may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary recommendations, and other therapies to restore balance and promote optimal health.

The concept of meridians

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), meridians are energy pathways that are believed to connect different parts of the body and facilitate the flow of qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy that is said to animate all living things. There are twelve primary meridians that run vertically throughout the body, each corresponding to a different internal organ system, such as the lungs, heart, liver, and kidneys. There are also eight extra meridians that are believed to connect the primary meridians and help regulate the flow of qi.

According to TCM, when the flow of qi through the meridians is disrupted or blocked, it can lead to pain, illness, or other health problems. The insertion of acupuncture needles at specific points along the meridians is thought to help unblock the flow of qi and restore balance and harmony to the body’s energy systems.

While the concept of meridians is not recognized by conventional Western medicine, some studies have suggested that acupuncture may have physiological effects on the body, such as releasing endorphins and other neurotransmitters, regulating blood flow, and stimulating the immune system. Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments to help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve overall health and wellbeing.

These are all the 12 primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
1. Lung meridian (Lu meridian)
2. Large intestine meridian (LI meridian)
3. Stomach meridian (St meridian)
4. Spleen meridian (Sp meridian)
5. Heart meridian (H meridian)
6. Small intestine meridian (SI meridian)
7. Urinary bladder meridian (UB meridian)
8. Kidney meridian (K meridian)
9. Pericardium meridian (P meridian)
10. Triple Energizer/San Jiao meridian (SJ meridian)
11. Gallbladder meridian (GB meridian)
12. Liver meridian (Liv meridian)

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1. Lung meridian (Lu meridian)
The Lung meridian, also known as the Lung channel or Lu meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Lung meridian is believed to originate in the chest and run down the arm, connecting with the large intestine meridian.

According to TCM, the Lung meridian is responsible for the function of the lungs, which includes respiration, immune function, and the distribution of qi and body fluids throughout the body. The Lung meridian is also associated with the skin and the emotion of grief.

The Lung meridian has 11 acupuncture points along its pathway, starting at the chest and running down the arm to the thumb. These points are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis, as well as skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. The Lung meridian is also used to treat emotional imbalances related to grief, such as sadness and depression.

2. Large intestine meridian (LI meridian)
The Large intestine meridian, also known as the Large intestine channel or LI meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Large intestine meridian starts at the index finger and runs along the arm, through the shoulder, and down the side of the body, ending at the nostril.

According to TCM, the Large intestine meridian is responsible for the function of the large intestine, which includes elimination and the absorption of fluids and minerals. The Large intestine meridian is also believed to play a role in maintaining immunity and regulating the balance of body fluids.

The Large intestine meridian has 20 acupuncture points along its pathway. These points are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address digestive issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. The Large intestine meridian is also used to treat conditions such as headaches, toothaches, and shoulder pain.

In addition to acupuncture, other traditional Chinese medicine therapies, such as herbal medicine and dietary therapy, can also be used to support the function of the Large intestine meridian and promote overall health and wellbeing.

3. Stomach meridian (St meridian)
The Stomach meridian, also known as the Stomach channel or St meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Stomach meridian starts at the head and runs down the face, neck, and chest, through the abdomen and down the leg, ending at the second toe.

According to TCM, the Stomach meridian is responsible for the function of the stomach, which includes digestion and the absorption of nutrients. The Stomach meridian is also believed to play a role in the distribution of qi and body fluids throughout the body and the regulation of emotions, such as anxiety and worry.

The Stomach meridian has 45 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address digestive issues, such as nausea, bloating, and acid reflux. The Stomach meridian is also used to treat conditions such as headaches, migraines, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.

4. Spleen meridian (Sp meridian)
The Spleen meridian, also known as the Spleen channel or Sp meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Spleen meridian starts at the big toe and runs up the leg, through the abdomen, and ends at the chest.

According to TCM, the Spleen meridian is responsible for the function of the spleen and pancreas, which includes digestion, nutrient absorption, and the production of blood. The Spleen meridian is also believed to play a role in the immune system and the regulation of emotions, such as worry and overthinking.

The Spleen meridian has 21 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address digestive issues, such as bloating, diarrhea, and poor appetite. The Spleen meridian is also used to treat conditions such as menstrual irregularities, fatigue, and anxiety.

5. Heart meridian (H meridian)
The Heart meridian, also known as the Heart channel or H meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Heart meridian starts at the armpit and runs down the arm, through the wrist, and ends at the little finger.

According to TCM, the Heart meridian is responsible for the function of the heart, which includes the regulation of blood circulation, the production of sweat, and the regulation of emotions, such as joy and sadness. The Heart meridian is also believed to play a role in mental clarity and consciousness.

The Heart meridian has 9 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address cardiovascular issues, such as high blood pressure and palpitations. The Heart meridian is also used to treat conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

6. Small intestine meridian (SI meridian)
The Small Intestine meridian, also known as the Small Intestine channel or SI meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Small Intestine meridian starts at the little finger and runs up the arm, through the shoulder, and ends at the ear.

According to TCM, the Small Intestine meridian is responsible for the function of the small intestine, which includes the absorption and processing of nutrients from food. The Small Intestine meridian is also believed to play a role in the separation of pure and impure fluids in the body and the regulation of emotions, such as joy and sorrow.

The Small Intestine meridian has 19 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address digestive issues, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. The Small Intestine meridian is also used to treat conditions such as neck pain, headaches, and ear infections.

7. Urinary bladder meridian (UB meridian)
The Urinary Bladder meridian, also known as the Bladder channel or UB meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Urinary Bladder meridian starts at the inner corner of the eye and runs down the head, neck, back, legs, and ends at the small toe.

According to TCM, the Urinary Bladder meridian is responsible for the function of the urinary bladder, which includes the elimination of waste and excess fluids from the body. The Urinary Bladder meridian is also believed to play a role in the regulation of water metabolism, the storage and release of energy, and the regulation of emotions, such as fear and anxiety.

The Urinary Bladder meridian has 67 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address issues such as urinary tract infections, back pain, and headaches. The Urinary Bladder meridian is also used to treat conditions such as insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

8. Kidney meridian (K meridian)
The Kidney meridian, also known as the Kidney channel or K meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Kidney meridian starts at the sole of the foot and runs up the leg, through the torso, and ends at the chest.

According to TCM, the Kidney meridian is responsible for the function of the kidneys, which includes the regulation of water metabolism, the production of urine, and the filtration of waste products from the blood. The Kidney meridian is also believed to play a role in the production of marrow and the regulation of growth and development.

The Kidney meridian has 27 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address issues such as low back pain, urinary incontinence, and infertility. The Kidney meridian is also used to treat conditions such as fatigue, depression, and anxiety.

9. Pericardium meridian (P meridian)
The Pericardium meridian, also known as the Pericardium channel or P meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Pericardium meridian starts at the chest and runs down the arm, through the wrist, and ends at the tip of the middle finger.

According to TCM, the Pericardium meridian is responsible for the function of the pericardium, which is the membrane that surrounds and protects the heart. The Pericardium meridian is also believed to play a role in the circulation of blood and energy, the regulation of emotions, and the protection of the heart from external influences.

The Pericardium meridian has 9 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address issues such as chest pain, anxiety, and insomnia. The Pericardium meridian is also used to treat conditions such as palpitations, hot flashes, and mood swings.

10. Triple Energizer/San Jiao meridian (SJ meridian)
The Triple Energizer meridian, also known as the Triple Burner or San Jiao channel or SJ meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. Unlike other meridians, the Triple Energizer meridian is not associated with a specific organ, but instead is related to the function of three different areas of the body: the upper, middle, and lower.

According to TCM, the Triple Energizer meridian is responsible for regulating the circulation of fluids and energy throughout the body, as well as coordinating the functions of the different organs and tissues. The Triple Energizer meridian is also believed to play a role in the regulation of body temperature, the protection of the body from external influences, and the maintenance of overall balance and harmony.

The Triple Energizer meridian has 23 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address issues such as digestive problems, menstrual irregularities, and emotional imbalances. The Triple Energizer meridian is also used to treat conditions such as allergies, headaches, and hypertension.

11. Gallbladder meridian (GB meridian)
The Gallbladder meridian, also known as the Gallbladder channel or GB meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Gallbladder meridian starts at the corner of the eye and runs down the side of the head and neck, along the side of the body, through the hip and leg, and ends at the fourth toe.

According to TCM, the Gallbladder meridian is responsible for the function of the gallbladder, which includes the storage and secretion of bile, as well as the digestion and absorption of fats. The Gallbladder meridian is also believed to play a role in decision-making, planning, and the ability to take action.

The Gallbladder meridian has 44 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address issues such as headaches, digestive disorders, and pain or stiffness in the neck and shoulders. The Gallbladder meridian is also used to treat conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

12. Liver meridian (Liv meridian)
The Liver meridian, also known as the Liver channel or Liv meridian, is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. The Liver meridian starts at the big toe and runs up the inside of the leg, through the abdomen and chest, and ends at the fourth rib.

According to TCM, the Liver meridian is responsible for the function of the liver, which includes the storage and release of blood, the regulation of the flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body, and the processing and detoxification of harmful substances. The Liver meridian is also believed to play a role in the regulation of emotions, particularly anger and frustration.

The Liver meridian has 14 acupuncture points along its pathway, which are commonly used in acupuncture treatments to address issues such as menstrual disorders, digestive problems, and emotional imbalances. The Liver meridian is also used to treat conditions such as allergies, migraines, and high blood pressure.

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