Acupuncture Point Categories Guide

Introduction

Acupuncture points are categorized based on their functions, locations, and energetic roles within the body. Understanding these categories allows practitioners to select the most effective points for treatment, enhancing the therapeutic effects of acupuncture.

Key Points

Acupuncture points are grouped by function and meridian relationships.
Special categories of points include Five Shu Points, Xi-Cleft Points, Luo-Connecting Points, Yuan-Source Points, and Command Points.
Each category plays a unique role in channel regulation, qi movement, and treatment strategy.
Selecting points based on these categories enhances clinical outcomes in pain management, internal medicine, and emotional balance.

Overview of Acupuncture Point Categories

The main categories of acupuncture points include:

  
    Category
    Function
    Example Points
  

    Five Shu (Transporting) Points
    Regulate qi flow along the channel
    LU-11, ST-36, HT-9
  

    Yuan-Source Points
    Strengthen and tonify their corresponding organ
    LU-9, LI-4, SP-3
  

    Luo-Connecting Points
    Connect paired meridians and treat emotional imbalances
    LU-7, PC-6, ST-40
  

    Xi-Cleft Points
    Treat acute pain and bleeding disorders
    LU-6, ST-34, UB-63
  

    Back-Shu Points
    Directly influence the zang-fu organs
    UB-13, UB-18, UB-23
  

    Front-Mu Points
    Treat acute conditions of zang-fu organs
    LU-1, ST-25, CV-12
  

    Command Points
    Influence specific body regions
    LI-4 (Face/Head), ST-36 (Abdomen)
  

    Confluent Points of the Extraordinary Vessels
    Open and regulate the extraordinary vessels
    LU-7, SI-3, SP-4
  

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➡️ Explore Five Shu Points in Detail

Function and Clinical Application of Key Categories

1. Five Shu (Transporting) Points

These points are categorized into Jing-Well, Ying-Spring, Shu-Stream, Jing-River, and He-Sea points.
Regulate qi flow and organ function.
Example: ST-36 (Leg Three Miles) strengthens digestion and boosts energy.

2. Yuan-Source Points

Strengthen the primary qi of their respective organs.
Example: LI-4 (Hegu) is a powerful point for immunity and pain relief.

3. Luo-Connecting Points

Connect yin-yang paired channels and influence psycho-emotional conditions.
Example: PC-6 (Neiguan) is excellent for nausea, anxiety, and heart conditions.

➡️ Learn More About Luo-Connecting Channels

4. Xi-Cleft Points

Used in treating acute conditions, pain, and bleeding disorders.
Example: SP-8 (Diji) is an important point for menstrual cramps and blood stagnation.

5. Back-Shu & Front-Mu Points

Back-Shu Points influence the zang-fu organs via the Bladder channel.
Front-Mu Points provide a direct access point for treating internal organ conditions.
Example: UB-23 (Back-Shu of the Kidneys) is widely used for kidney deficiency.

➡️ Discover Back-Shu and Front-Mu Points

6. Command Points

Each Command Point influences a specific region of the body.
Example: ST-36 (Command Point of the Abdomen) improves digestion and strengthens immunity.

7. Confluent Points of the Extraordinary Vessels

These points open and regulate the Eight Extraordinary Vessels.
Example: LU-7 (Lieque) opens the Ren Mai, treating lung disorders and gynecological issues.

➡️ Learn More About Extraordinary Vessels

Selecting Acupuncture Points for Treatment

Acupuncture point selection is based on:

Local, Adjacent, and Distal Points: Choosing points close to the affected area, nearby channels, and related distal points.
Channel Combinations: Using paired meridians and associated pathways.
Mirror Imaging & Cross Needling: Selecting opposite-side or mirroring points for balance.

Conclusion

Acupuncture point categories provide a structured framework for clinical practice, allowing practitioners to enhance treatment effectiveness, regulate qi, and treat complex conditions. Understanding these categories is essential for creating personalized acupuncture strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why are acupuncture point categories important?

They provide functional groupings of points that enhance treatment effectiveness.

Q: What are the most commonly used acupuncture point categories?

Five Shu Points, Yuan-Source Points, Luo-Connecting Points, and Command Points are widely used in clinical practice.

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

Consider point function, channel relationships, and clinical presentation when selecting acupuncture points.

Sources:

Deadman, P. (2001). A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Channels of Acupuncture: Clinical Use of the Secondary Channels and Eight Extraordinary Vessels. Churchill Livingstone.
Kendall, D. E. (2002). The Dao of Chinese Medicine: Understanding an Ancient Healing Art. Oxford University Press.