Points and Meridians in Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing method that is used around the world. In this therapy, needles are used to stimulate acupuncture points in the body to restore the body’s energy balance and improve health. One of the key elements of acupuncture is the points and meridians, which are the fundamental elements of this therapy.

Acupuncture points are specific points on the body that are used to insert acupuncture needles. These points are located along meridian lines, or energy meridians, which run throughout the body. Acupuncture distinguishes several different types of points, including tonic points, distraction points, movement points and vital points.

Acupuncture meridians, also known as meridians, are energy lines that run through the body. Acupuncture distinguishes twelve main meridians, which are associated with various organs and functions in the body. Each meridian has its own acupuncture points, which are used to treat various diseases and ailments.

Acupuncture points and meridians are integral components of this therapy and their proper use is key to achieving effective results. For example, acupuncture point LI4, located on the palm of the hand, is used to relieve headaches, migraines, sore throats and toothaches. Acupuncture points BL23 and BL47, located on the back, are used to treat kidney and urinary tract diseases.

In acupuncture, there are many different methods used to select acupuncture points and meridians. One of the most popular methods is the so-called. Chinese diagnosis, which involves analyzing the patient’s symptoms, including pulse, tongue and facial examination, to determine which points and meridians to use for treatment.

Another popular method of selecting acupuncture points and meridians is called “acupuncture. five elements theory. According to this theory, the human body is connected to five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each of these elements is associated with different organs and functions in the body, and acupuncture points and meridians are selected to affect the balance between these elements and restore harmony in the body.

Acupuncture is effective in treating a wide variety of ailments, such as headaches, back pain, stress, allergic diseases, digestive problems, insomnia and many others. Many people use acupuncture as an adjunct to traditional medical treatment, and some opt for it as an alternative form of treatment.

Acupuncture points and meridians are important elements of this therapy and are used to restore energy balance in the body. Although there are various methods of selecting points and meridians, choosing the right ones depends on the individual needs and symptoms of the patient.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective form of treatment, but as with any therapy, there are some risks and side effects, such as bleeding, infections, dizziness and weakness. Therefore, before deciding to start acupuncture therapy, it is advisable to consult a doctor and make sure that this form of treatment is safe for the patient.

In summary, acupuncture points and meridians are fundamental elements of this ancient therapy, which is used worldwide. By using acupuncture needles to stimulate acupuncture points along energy meridians in the body, acupuncture aims to restore energy balance in the body and improve health. Although there are some risks and side effects, acupuncture is an effective form of treatment for a wide variety of ailments and can be used as an adjunct to traditional medical treatment.

Examples of Point and Meridian Selection

Matching points and meridians in acupuncture is crucial to the effectiveness of therapy. The choice of specific points and meridians depends on the disease or ailment to be treated, as well as the individual needs of the patient. Below are examples of how points and meridians are selected in acupuncture.

Treatment of back pain
Back pain is one of the most common ailments for which acupuncture is used. In treating back pain, acupuncturists often select points and meridians that are located on the bladder meridian. This meridian runs from the tip of the big toe of the foot, through the entire length of the spine to the neck and temples. Acupuncture points that are located on this meridian can help reduce back pain by relaxing muscles and reducing inflammation. Examples of points that are used to treat back pain are point BL23 (Shenshu), point BL25 (Dachangshu) and point BL40 (Weizhong).

Headache treatment
Headache is another ailment for which acupuncture is used. In treating headaches, acupuncturists often select points and meridians that are located on the meridian of the three junctions. This meridian begins in the area between the big toe and second toe, then runs along the inside edge of the foot and shin, up to the perineum, then along the abdomen, chest and neck, ending at the temples. Examples of points that are used to treat headaches are point GB20 (Fengchi), point GB8 (Shuaigu) and point LI4 (Hegu).

Treatment of respiratory diseases
Respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic bronchitis, are other conditions for which acupuncture is used. In treating respiratory diseases, acupuncturists often select points and meridians that are located on the lung and colon meridians. The lung meridian begins at the edge of the index finger, runs along the arm and chest, and then ends at the forearm. The intestinal meridian begins at the lateral edge of the index finger, runs along the arm and forearm, and ends at the tip of the index finger. Examples of points that are used to treat respiratory diseases are point LU1 (Zhongfu) on the lung meridian and point LI11 (Quchi) on the colon meridian.

Treatment of digestive diseases
Digestive diseases, such as stomach ulcers and reflux disease, are other conditions for which acupuncture is used. In treating digestive diseases, acupuncturists often select points and meridians that are located on the stomach meridian. The gastric meridian begins at the side of the nose, runs along the zygomatic line, and ends at the upper edge of the ulna. Examples of points that are used to treat digestive diseases are point ST36 (Zusanli), point ST25 (Tianshu) and point ST44 (Neiting).

Treatment of gynecological diseases
Gynecological diseases, such as painful periods and infertility, are other conditions for which acupuncture is used. In treating gynecological diseases, acupuncturists often select points and meridians that are located on the meridian of the three heats. The meridian of the three warmers begins at the end of the little finger, runs along the arm, and then ends at the end of the thumb. Examples of points that are used to treat gynecological diseases are SP6 point (Sanyinjiao), CV3 point (Zhongji) and CV4 point (Guanyuan).

Matching points and meridians in acupuncture requires careful analysis of the patient’s individual situation, as well as knowledge of meridians and acupuncture points. For this reason, acupuncture therapy should be conducted by a qualified specialist who, after a thorough examination of the patient, will select the appropriate points and meridians to achieve the best therapeutic effect.

What Diseases Can Be Treated with Points and Meridians in Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of conditions, both physical and emotional. The list of diseases that can be treated with acupuncture points and meridians is long and varied. Below are some examples:

Musculoskeletal pain – acupuncture can help treat pain in the back, neck, shoulders, knees and other joints. In this case, acupuncture is used to relieve pain, improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.

Respiratory problems – acupuncture can help treat asthma, allergies, sinusitis, coughs and other respiratory diseases. By stimulating points and meridians on the lung meridian, acupuncture can help improve lung ventilation, reduce mucosal edema and improve overall respiratory function.

Digestive diseases – acupuncture can help treat digestive diseases such as peptic ulcer disease, reflux disease, constipation and diarrhea. By stimulating points and meridians on the stomach meridian, acupuncture can help regulate digestion, reduce abdominal pain and improve overall health.

Nervous system problems – acupuncture can help treat neurological diseases such as migraine, headaches, neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, multiple sclerosis and others. By stimulating points and meridians on the liver meridian, acupuncture can help reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.

Gynecological diseases – acupuncture can help treat gynecological diseases such as painful periods, polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility and others. By stimulating points and meridians on the three-heat meridian, acupuncture can help regulate hormones, improve blood circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Emotional problems – acupuncture can help treat emotional illnesses such as depression, anxiety, neurosis, stress and others. By stimulating points and meridians on the heart meridian, acupuncture can help reduce nervous tension, improve sleep, reduce anxiety and improve overall emotional health.

However, it is important to note that acupuncture cannot always replace traditional treatments and is not suitable for all patients. In case of serious illnesses or diseases that require immediate medical intervention, it is necessary to consult a specialist.

In addition, there are also cases where acupuncture can be effective, but its use must be thoughtful and well-reasoned. For example, in the case of pregnancy, certain points on a woman’s body are considered dangerous and should not be stimulated.

In any case, the decision to use acupuncture should be made by a doctor or acupuncture specialist, after carefully analyzing the patient’s condition and adjusting the appropriate treatment plan.

In summary, points and meridians in acupuncture are key elements of this therapeutic method, enabling effective and safe treatment of many diseases and conditions. However, as with any therapeutic method, caution should be observed and a doctor should be consulted before starting acupuncture treatment.

Full List of Conditions Treated with Acupuncture

How Does an Acupuncture Session Work?

An acupuncture session usually begins with a thorough medical history, in which the patient talks about his or her ailments and general health. The acupuncturist then assesses the patient’s energetic state by conducting a pulse test and observing the patient’s tongue.

After thoroughly understanding the patient’s problems and determining treatment goals, the acupuncturist selects the appropriate acupuncture points for stimulation. These points are located on specific meridians of the meridians and are selected based on their importance to specific organs, functions and diseases.

The acupuncturist then uses thin needles that are gently inserted into selected points on the patient’s body. The patient may feel a slight stinging or tightening sensation where the needle has been placed, but should feel comfortable and safe throughout the session.

The needles remain in the patient’s body for about 20-30 minutes, during which the patient can relax and focus on his or her breathing or listen to relaxation music. At the end of the session, the needles are gently removed, and the patient can feel relaxed and rested.

There are also other methods of acupuncture, such as applying heat or pressure to selected points, but needle therapy is the most commonly used method.

For longer treatment cycles, acupuncture sessions are usually scheduled regularly, every few weeks or months, depending on the patient’s needs. Acupuncture treatment is usually effective, but requires a regular and long-term approach to achieve positive results.

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Points and Meridians and Qi Energy Theory

The acupuncture point connects the inside of the body with the outside world. The diseased organ sends impulses to the outside through the acupuncture point, but we can also influence the organ by acting from the outside. Through the points, the organs also collect the energy necessary for their functioning from the outside.

Numerous studies in recent years confirm that the points have the same location in all people (with small individual deviations). They are usually between 2 and 5 millimeters in diameter, although they can expand as they pass through disease. The way to distinguish an acupuncture point from an ordinary piece of skin is a symptom called de qi, which is when you experience a puncture sensation that the patient only experiences when the point is stimulated.

Chinese medicine divides points into several types. The stimulating points increase the flow of qi energy, while the calming points reduce the flow. The source guards the harmonious flow of qi between stimulating and calming points. All three act on the entire meridian. Luo points balance the work of the two meridians yin and yang. Anterior compatibility points inform about the disease in a given organ (they then become enlarged and hurt). There are 12 posterior compatibility points, they are located on the back and lie over related organs. Therefore, special attention is paid to them during the disease of a specific organ.

Based on: H. Operacz, Acupuncture treatment.