Selecting Acupuncture Points for Treatment Guide

Introduction

Selecting the right acupuncture points for treatment is essential for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes. This guide covers principles, point combinations, and selection strategies used by acupuncturists to effectively treat pain, internal disorders, and emotional imbalances.

Key Points

Acupuncture point selection is based on pattern diagnosis, meridian relationships, and treatment principles.
Strategies include local, adjacent, and distal point selection.
Combining primary points with complementary points enhances effectiveness.
Selection varies depending on acute vs. chronic conditions, pain vs. internal disorders, and constitutional needs.

Principles of Acupuncture Point Selection

1. Local, Adjacent, and Distal Points

Local Points: Directly affect the area of discomfort.
Adjacent Points: Near the affected area to provide additional support.
Distal Points: Used along meridian pathways to regulate qi and blood.

2. Meridian Theory and Channel Relationships

Treating along affected meridians to restore balance.
Using paired meridians for complementary effects.
Example: Using ST-36 for stomach disorders and LI-4 for facial pain.

➡️ Explore Acupuncture Point Categories

Effective Acupuncture Point Combinations

  
    Condition
    Primary Point
    Complementary Points
  

    Headache
    LI-4 (Hegu)
    GB-20 (Fengchi), DU-23 (Shangxing)
  

    Digestive Issues
    ST-36 (Zusanli)
    CV-12 (Zhongwan), SP-6 (Sanyinjiao)
  

    Lower Back Pain
    UB-40 (Weizhong)
    DU-4 (Mingmen), KI-3 (Taixi)
  

    Anxiety & Stress
    PC-6 (Neiguan)
    HT-7 (Shenmen), DU-24 (Shenting)
  

    Menstrual Cramps
    SP-8 (Diji)
    LV-3 (Taichong), CV-4 (Guanyuan)
  

Schedule Now

➡️ Learn More About Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Specialized Acupuncture Point Selection Strategies

1. Five Shu Points for Channel Regulation

Jing-Well: Treats acute conditions, revives consciousness.
Ying-Spring: Clears heat from the body.
Shu-Stream: Strengthens the zang organs.
Jing-River: Treats respiratory issues and voice disorders.
He-Sea: Regulates internal organs.

2. Yuan-Source and Luo-Connecting Point Combinations

Used to balance paired meridians.
Example: LU-9 (Yuan-Source of Lung) + LI-6 (Luo-Connecting of Large Intestine) for respiratory issues.

➡️ Explore Yuan-Source Points

3. Command Points for Regional Treatment

LI-4 (Face & Mouth)
ST-36 (Abdomen)
UB-40 (Lower Back)
LU-7 (Head & Neck)

4. Extraordinary Vessel Activation

LU-7 + KI-6 for Ren Mai (Conception Vessel).
SI-3 + BL-62 for Du Mai (Governing Vessel).
SP-4 + PC-6 for Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel).

➡️ Learn More About Extraordinary Vessel Points

Treatment Planning Based on Condition Type

Acute Conditions: Focus on distal and meridian-associated points.
Chronic Conditions: Use organ-tonifying points and Back Shu points.
Emotional Disorders: Select points from the Heart, Pericardium, and Liver meridians.
Pain Syndromes: Balance local and distal points, and consider ashi points.

Conclusion

Acupuncture point selection is a strategic process based on meridian theory, diagnosis, and patient condition. By choosing effective combinations and understanding point interactions, practitioners can optimize therapeutic results for various ailments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I choose the best acupuncture points for a patient?

Consider local, adjacent, and distal points while aligning with the meridian system and treatment principles.

Q: Can different acupuncture styles affect point selection?

Yes! Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Five Elements, and Balance Method acupuncture influence how points are chosen and combined.

Q: How many points should be used in a single treatment?

Typically, 6-12 points are used per session, depending on treatment goals and patient response.

Sources

Deadman, P. (2001). A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text for Acupuncturists. Churchill Livingstone.
Kendall, D. E. (2002). The Dao of Chinese Medicine: Understanding an Ancient Healing Art. Oxford University Press.