Understanding Point Selection

Point selection stands as one of the most important aspects of effective acupuncture treatment.

Skilled practitioners combine traditional wisdom with modern understanding to identify the optimal points for each patient’s specific condition.

This guide explores the key principles and methods used in selecting acupuncture points, helping both practitioners and patients understand this essential component of treatment.

Basic Principles of Point Selection

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) categorizes acupuncture points based on their locations along specific meridians or energy channels.

• Local points: Located near the area of pain or dysfunction
• Distal points: Found away from the affected area but connected through meridians
• Source points: Key points that access the fundamental energy of specific meridians
• Command points: Powerful points that influence entire body systems

Common Selection Methods

Practitioners typically employ several methods when choosing points:

1. Channel Theory Selection: Based on meridian pathways
2. Symptom-based Selection: Targeting specific symptoms
3. Experience-based Selection: Drawing from clinical expertise
4. Research-based Selection: Using evidence from clinical studies

Point Combinations

Safety Considerations

Certain points require special attention due to their location near sensitive structures.

• Avoid needling prohibited points during pregnancy
• Exercise caution with points near major blood vessels
• Consider depth restrictions for chest and abdominal points
• Be aware of contraindications for electrically stimulated points

Finding Qualified Treatment

For safe and effective treatment, seek licensed acupuncturists certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

Contact information for finding qualified practitioners:

• NCCAOM Directory: www.nccaom.org
• American Academy of Medical Acupuncture: www.medicalacupuncture.org

Next Steps in Your Treatment Journey

Before starting treatment, schedule a consultation with a qualified practitioner to discuss your specific condition and develop an appropriate point selection strategy.

Document your responses to treatments to help refine point selection in future sessions.

Remember that point selection may evolve as your condition changes and healing progresses.

Treatment Frequency and Duration

The number and frequency of treatments depend on various factors:

• Acute vs. chronic conditions
• Severity of symptoms
• Patient’s overall health status
• Response to initial treatments

Typical Treatment Schedules

Evaluating Treatment Progress

Practitioners assess treatment effectiveness through:

• Symptom changes and improvement
• Patient feedback and daily function
• Objective measurements when applicable
• Changes in related symptoms or conditions

Integrating Modern Research

Contemporary acupuncture practice increasingly incorporates:

1. Clinical trial results
2. Neuroimaging studies
3. Pain management research
4. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Optimizing Your Acupuncture Journey

Success in acupuncture treatment requires:

• Clear communication with your practitioner
• Consistent attendance at scheduled sessions
• Following complementary lifestyle recommendations
• Patience with the healing process

Understanding point selection and maintaining regular treatment schedules maximizes the benefits of acupuncture therapy. Work closely with your qualified practitioner to develop and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

FAQs

1. How do acupuncturists determine which points to use during treatment?
   Acupuncturists select points based on Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis, which includes pulse reading, tongue observation, patient symptoms, and meridian theory. Points are chosen according to their specific functions and their relationship to the patient’s condition.
2. What are the most commonly used acupuncture points?
   The most frequently used points include LI4 (Hegu), ST36 (Zusanli), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), LV3 (Taichong), and GV20 (Baihui). These points are valued for their versatility in treating multiple conditions and strong therapeutic effects.
3. Are certain acupuncture points dangerous or forbidden?
   Yes, some points are contraindicated during pregnancy (like SP6, LI4, and BL60), while others require special expertise due to their proximity to vital organs or deep anatomical structures.
4. What is the significance of bilateral point selection?
   Bilateral point selection means needling the same point on both sides of the body. This approach is often used for systematic conditions, while unilateral treatment may be chosen for localized issues.
5. How many points are typically used in one treatment session?
   A typical treatment usually involves 10-20 points, though this varies based on the condition, treatment strategy, and patient’s constitution. Some conditions may require fewer or more points.
6. What role do meridians play in point selection?
   Meridians are energy pathways connecting different points. Point selection often follows meridian theory, choosing points that share connections through specific meridians to address the patient’s condition.
7. Can the same points be used for different conditions?
   Yes, individual points often have multiple functions and can be used to treat various conditions. Their therapeutic effect often depends on the combination with other points and the overall treatment strategy.
8. What’s the importance of point location accuracy?
   Precise point location is crucial for treatment efficacy. Points are located using anatomical landmarks and proportional measurements, with even small deviations potentially affecting treatment outcomes.
9. How does the time of day affect point selection?
   According to TCM theory, each meridian has optimal activity times during the 24-hour cycle. Some practitioners consider these time factors when selecting points for maximum therapeutic effect.
10. What is the concept of ‘Ah-Shi’ points in point selection?
    Ah-Shi points are tender or painful points that are not among the standard acupuncture points but are used for treatment, especially in musculoskeletal conditions.

Author: AcupunctureMy