Acupuncture, Moxibustion, and Meridian Theory
Acupuncture, Moxibustion, and Meridian Theory
This domain tests meridian pathways, point location and functions, needling technique, moxibustion, and safety.
Core rules
- Twelve primary meridians pair yin and yang organs and connect internally and externally; the eight extra vessels regulate reservoirs. Direction follows hand yin from chest to hand, hand yang from hand to head, foot yang from head to foot, foot yin from foot to chest.
- Key point categories: five shu (jing-well, ying-spring, shu-stream, jing-river, he-sea), yuan-source, luo-connecting, xi-cleft, back-shu, front-mu.
- Deqi is a desired needling sensation-aching, distension, numbness, or heaviness-not pain from poor technique.
- Needling depth and angle depend on anatomy: chest and back points risk pneumothorax; points near vessels or nerves require care. Moxibustion warms and disperses cold; it is used cautiously in heat patterns and avoided over numb or insensate skin.
- Contraindications and cautions include pregnancy-sensitive points, bleeding disorders, anticoagulation, local infection, and uncooperative patients.
Worked example
A patient has nausea and vomiting with chest oppression. PC6 (Neiguan) is selected. Reasoning: PC6 regulates chest and Stomach qi and is a common distal point for nausea. Needle perpendicularly with gentle stimulation, check for Deqi, and monitor. If the patient is pregnant or has a pacemaker, assess cautions before electroacupuncture.
Traps
Do not rely on memorized point lists without location. Do not needle deeply at chest/back points. Do not use moxa on heat patterns or numb skin. Do not ignore syncope during needling; remove needles and manage safely.