Acupuncture Styles and Point Combinations Guide

Introduction

Acupuncture treatment varies widely based on different schools of thought and clinical approaches. The selection of points is influenced by diagnostic patterns, channel theories, and treatment goals. This guide covers key acupuncture styles and effective point combinations used for various conditions.

Key Points

Different acupuncture styles focus on qi regulation, meridian balancing, and point synergy.
Combining acupuncture points enhances therapeutic effects and supports holistic healing.
Methods like Mirror Imaging, Five Element Acupuncture, and Tung's Acupuncture have unique approaches to treatment.

Major Acupuncture Styles

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture

Based on zang-fu organ theory and meridian pathways.
Treats patterns of excess, deficiency, heat, and cold.
Common technique: Back Shu and Front Mu point pairing.

➡️ Explore TCM Acupuncture

2. Five Element Acupuncture

Focuses on constitutional diagnosis based on five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water).
Used for emotional, spiritual, and systemic balancing.
Example point combination: LV-3 (Taichong) + PC-8 (Laogong) for stress relief.

➡️ Learn More About Five Element Acupuncture

3. Balance Method Acupuncture (Dr. Tan’s Method)

Uses mirroring and imaging principles to treat pain and dysfunction.
Example: Treating knee pain using elbow points (LI-11 for ST-35 pain).
Highly effective for immediate pain relief.

➡️ Discover Balance Method Acupuncture

4. Tung’s Acupuncture

A classical system known for unique point locations and immediate effects.
Uses micro-system zones and fewer needles for strong results.
Example: Tung’s Ling Gu point for sciatic pain relief.

➡️ Explore Tung’s Acupuncture

5. Japanese Acupuncture

Emphasizes gentle needling, abdominal diagnosis, and moxibustion.
More subtle and energy-based, ideal for sensitive patients.
Uses Hara diagnosis to find root imbalances.

➡️ Learn About Japanese Acupuncture

Effective Acupuncture Point Combinations

  
    Condition
    Primary Points
    Supporting Points
  

    Headache
    LI-4 (Hegu), GB-20 (Fengchi)
    DU-23 (Shangxing), ST-8 (Touwei)
  

    Digestive Disorders
    ST-36 (Zusanli), CV-12 (Zhongwan)
    SP-6 (Sanyinjiao), ST-25 (Tianshu)
  

    Lower Back Pain
    UB-40 (Weizhong), DU-4 (Mingmen)
    KI-3 (Taixi), GB-34 (Yanglingquan)
  

    Anxiety & Stress
    PC-6 (Neiguan), HT-7 (Shenmen)
    DU-24 (Shenting), LI-4 (Hegu)
  

    Insomnia
    HT-7 (Shenmen), SP-6 (Sanyinjiao)
    KD-6 (Zhaohai), Yin Tang
  

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➡️ Learn More About Acupuncture for Pain Management

Special Point Selection Strategies

1. Mirror Imaging and Balance Method

Treats distant areas reflecting affected body parts.
Example: Elbow points for knee pain, wrist points for ankle pain.

2. Meridian Pairing and Luo-Source Point Combinations

Uses Luo-Connecting and Yuan-Source points to balance paired meridians.
Example: LU-9 (Yuan) + LI-6 (Luo) for respiratory and skin issues.

➡️ Explore Luo-Source Point Pairing

3. Extraordinary Vessel Activation

Uses master points to regulate the Eight Extraordinary Vessels.
Example: LU-7 + KI-6 for Ren Mai (Yin conditions), SI-3 + BL-62 for Du Mai (Yang conditions).

➡️ Discover Extraordinary Vessel Points

Treatment Planning Based on Patient Presentation

Acute Conditions: Use distal points, channel-based treatments, and imaging methods.
Chronic Conditions: Incorporate zang-fu tonification, Back Shu points, and moxibustion.
Emotional Disorders: Select points from the Heart, Pericardium, Liver, and Spleen meridians.
Musculoskeletal Pain: Utilize local, distal, and imaging techniques for fast relief.

Conclusion

Acupuncture point selection varies based on different styles, diagnostic frameworks, and clinical goals. By mastering various techniques and effective combinations, practitioners can achieve optimal treatment outcomes for a wide range of conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best acupuncture style for pain relief?

Balance Method and Tung’s Acupuncture are highly effective for quick pain relief.

Q: Can different acupuncture styles be combined in a single treatment?

Yes! Many practitioners integrate TCM, Balance Method, and Five Element Acupuncture for comprehensive healing.

Q: How do I know which acupuncture style to use for a patient?

Choose based on diagnosis, condition type (acute vs. chronic), and patient constitution.

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.