How to Use Acupuncture Combination Points

Rooted in ancient Chinese techniques, acupuncture is used to control pain and facilitate healing. Thin needles are inserted in specific parts of the body, known as energy pathways. Acupuncture theory holds that pain and illness stem from blocked energy flow; needle insertion is said to remove these blockages, clearing a path for wellness. These techniques have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including bursitis, sciatica, colitis, poor eyesight and deafness.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Book listing acupuncture combination points

1. Make an appointment with a local acupuncturist. You can find one through the Acufinder Web site (see Resources below). During your appointment, describe all your symptoms to your acupuncturist, in as much detail as you can. The more information you offer him or her, the better he or she can use combination points to treat you.
2. Learn more about acupuncture combination points by purchasing SStandard Meridian Points of Acupuncture: Charts" by the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion of the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (see Resources below).
3. See the strength of the stomach meridian. You'll find this point on the front of the leg, underneath the knee. Your acupuncturist will use it to conquer digestive disorders like vomiting, nausea and gastralgia. It's also used to treat immune deficiency, anemia and fatigue.
4. Harness the potency of the spleen meridian. This point makes its home on the inner part of the leg, sitting above the ankle. It governs the digestive system and can help relieve hormonal disorders.
5. Understand the power of the lung meridian. Found on the inside of the arm, just above the wrist, this combination point is used to address upper-body disorders, including neck stiffness, asthma, sore throat and facial paralysis.
6. Learn about the large intestine meridian. Found in the back of the hand between the thumb and first finger, your acupuncturist may use this combination point for pain relief and for the treatment of bowel ailments.
7. Perform any follow-up or complementary treatments suggested by your acupuncturist. This may include taking herbs and/or all-natural vitamin supplements.

Tips & Warnings

• Books containing a list of acupuncture points are available online and are moderately priced.
• If your symptoms are severe and include, for example, extreme chest pain, do not attempt to treat your condition with acupuncture. Seek help from a physician.
• Acupuncture can result in serious consequences like liver toxicity if not performed by someone with the proper training. Do not attempt to treat yourself unless you have the proper educational background.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.