Utama Micro-acupuncture in practice

Micro-acupuncture in practice

Tahun: 2009
Penerbit: Churchill Livingstone
Bahasa: english
Halaman: 606
ISBN 10: 0443067325
File: PDF, 19.23 MB
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The purpose of this book is to provide students and practitioners with a user-friendly, clear, and useful manual on microacupuncture systems. Writing this book about micro-systems is
both my passion and challenge. It is my hope that the publication of this book will gather more interest in the acupuncture
community, and will further education and research of microacupuncture. I also hope this book can become a valuable clinical reference and practice manual, as well as an auxiliary
textbook for education.

after 6 months I still had pain. During this time I also noticed a
pain and tightness on the top of my head near the acupuncture
point Du 19. I decided to needle this area of my scalp and to my
surprise my tailbone pain was gone the next day. This incident
triggered a memory about a scalp acupuncture book that I had
read many years ago. I started applying the theory to my
patients and had many success stories. Now, acupuncture
points Du 19, Du 18, and Du 17, which are also three regions in
Fang’s scalp acupuncture that are associated with the low back,
are used in my clinic on a daily basis.


Who Will Benefit from This Book and Why Is This
Book Important to the Profession?

Through my education in Oriental medicine, I became familiar
with some micro-system theories, such as auricular acupuncture and scalp acupuncture. My first encounter that increased
my belief in micro-systems came one day during a visit to an
attorney in 1992. We were both seated at his desk, face to face,
with his back to a large, sunny window. I noticed a dark spot in
his ear at the digestive area according to auricular micro-system
theory. I did not mention anything at the time but just took
notice. Later, during a visit with his wife, I mentioned that
both she and her husband had digestive problems. She was surprised at my insight and asked me how I knew such personal
information about her husband. I explained to her what
I noticed in her husband’s ear and she told me that he had just
recently had surgery for colon cancer. This situation piqued my
interest in micro-system theory and led me to believe that there
was important knowledge in this theory.
A few years later, I was attending an acupuncture convention
in California and I met a man who teaches Korean hand
acupuncture. He was performing a diagnosis on my hands by
running a metal wheel over my fingers to check for tenderness
and soreness. The area on my hand that was extremely sore was
the medial side of my left little finger proximal interphalangeal
joint. I asked him what that indicated. He told me that this area
corresponds to the medial side of my left knee. Interestingly, at
the time, I was suffering from left knee medial pain due to a
skiing accident, which he did not know about. To my surprise,
his diagnosis was extremely accurate. He then applied a stick-on
metal ball to stimulate that area and decrease my knee pain.
Another personal success story with micro-acupuncture
theory happened many years ago when I fell on my tailbone
while cross-country skiing. I thought the injury would heal but

Acupuncture students and practitioners will benefit equally.
The purpose of Micro-Acupuncture in Practice is to provide an
informative text and reference book about all of the microacupuncture systems a collection of knowledge that has not yet
been fully displayed in a single text. This book is unique in that
it contains extensive information on all of the micro-systems, as
well as comprehensive instruction on micro-acupuncture
therapy and clinical treatment methods. Other available books
on micro-acupuncture deal with single specific systems, rather
than covering all micro-systems. A student or practitioner
would need to purchase over 15 different books to get the
amount and variety of information found in this book.
One of the main reasons I chose to write this book was
because I saw a lack of information written in English about the
many micro-systems available for acupuncturists to use. In addition to the lack of information, the books that have been written
were specific to one type of micro-acupuncture theory. I noticed
that students and practitioners were not comfortable using
micro-acupuncture systems because they doubted the effectiveness and were unfamiliar with the concepts and techniques.
I decided that a book outlining many of the different microsystems available was necessary. By putting many of the systems
together in one book, it is easier for readers to compare and
determine which system is best for the patient they are treating.
I believe that many students today are only taught a few of the
micro-systems and not in much detail. This book provides students and practitioners with advanced study in micro-system
theory. It is important to have a thorough, easy-to-use manual
and reference tool for effective and efficient clinical use. I want
to make the use of micro-systems more widespread and convenient to use in a clinical setting for busy acupuncturists.



Conceptual Approach
I have written this book to be used in three possible ways:
1. By studying this book in its entirety, readers will completely
understand all micro-acupuncture systems, and be able to
apply their theories and techniques successfully in the clinic.
This book gathers almost all the different micro-acupuncture
systems and branches in the world, and if readers have great
interest in micro-acupuncture systems, this is the best method
of study. After reading this entire book, it is important to
apply these theories in clinical practice to further understanding and utilizing their benefits. Once readers are comfortable
using micro-acupuncture techniques and are fully familiar
with the theories and methods, this book can act as a reference
to assist readers in formal research and study.
2. By focusing studies on one or a few different microacupuncture systems, readers can quickly gain valuable
knowledge that can immediately be applied in clinical practice
to enhance results. After selecting one or a few different microacupuncture systems to learn, readers should thoroughly read
about that system in Unit 2 and review some common
conditions in Unit 3 to see how that system is therapeutically
applied in the clinic. This study method allows readers to
quickly learn and practice one system to gain thorough
understanding and skill, as well as achieve great clinical
results. The systems I use most are wrist and ankle acupuncture, ear acupuncture, and scalp acupuncture, which I have
seen the most benefits from in my clinical practice.
3. This book can be used as a reference tool in a clinical setting.
If readers meet a condition in the clinic that they have been
unsuccessful treating, they can turn to Unit 3 to find this
condition and learn new ways of approaching treatment.
Readers can also turn to Unit 4 to learn how to add massage
and self-care methods to the treatment plan. For example,
when treating a patient with stubborn headaches, readers
can turn to the section on headaches in Unit 3 and select a
micro-acupuncture system to use. Then they can go back to
Unit 2 to find the point locations, distributions, and functions. They can even refer to Chapter 2 to learn specific
needle techniques or Unit 4 for specific massage techniques.

Upon opening this book, many readers may feel excited by the
wealth of valuable and interesting subject matter, but this breadth
of information may also seem overwhelming. Readers may ask:
What is micro-acupuncture and what are its characteristics?
What is the difference between micro-acupuncture and macroacupuncture? How can I use micro-acupuncture to treat my
patients? There are so many systems and techniques, how do I
know which system will fit my patient? Which type of microacupuncture therapy can help me improve my clinical results?
This book will give readers the answers to these questions.
In general, Micro-Acupuncture in Practice details the whole
picture of micro-acupuncture concepts; however, that does not

mean readers need to read this entire book in order to use these
simple and effective systems. For example, readers can reference
a few pages of this book covering wrist and ankle acupuncture
for a specific clinical case and see amazing results. This book
introduces 18 modern micro-acupuncture systems and their
subsystems with an easy-to-use style. The therapeutic areas covered include internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, obstetrics,
pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, otorhinolaryngology,
and rhinology with 72 different diseases and their appropriate
treatment protocols. The classifications of disease in this book
are mainly titled using traditional Chinese medicine categories,
which means that the disease names are actually signs and
symptoms of the disease. This book also includes more than
300 pictures and illustrations.
Unit 1 introduces the history and basic concepts of the microacupuncture systems, as well as micro-acupuncture techniques.
Because many of these ideas are new theories in the acupuncture
field, some of the concepts and acupuncture points are still in the
discussion and research process. The relatively new concepts
presented here give readers the opportunity to be on the forefront of acupuncture ideas allowing for further studies, research,
and improvement. Unit 1 also introduces the similarities and
differences between micro-acupuncture and macro-acupuncture,
giving readers a new alternative in their clinical practice. Using
traditional acupuncture techniques and achieving less than ideal
results or being unable to do a complete acupuncture treatment
due to an inconvenient environment or the patient’s restrictive
condition can be common problems in a typical acupuncture
practice, but micro-acupuncture gives practitioners effective
options when these situations occur. This chapter also gives a
detailed introduction to many traditional, widely used acupuncture techniques, as well as some special techniques used in microacupuncture systems. Both traditional and special techniques are
able to be used alone or in combination, but some of these
special micro-acupuncture needle techniques will serve as the
main procedure during the acupuncture treatment.
Unit 2 gathers more than 18 different micro-acupuncture
systems and their subsystems, which details almost all the
micro-acupuncture systems in the world. Because these systems
derive from many different world perspectives, the point locations and indications sometimes vary. For example, Japanese
scalp acupuncture is quite different from Chinese scalp
acupuncture, and French ear acupuncture has several
differences compared with Chinese ear acupuncture. Unit 2
explains each system with detailed illustrations and photos to
assist readers in understanding the information, while allowing
for easy reference and self-study. Even though these microacupuncture systems may have different information, all the
systems are based on one main concept: holographic theory,
which means that each part of the body can reflect a miniature
image or small ratio of the whole body. In conclusion, Unit 2
can be studied in great detail to learn the similarities and differences of the world’s micro-acupuncture systems, or readers can
focus on and study a particular system that is easily applied and
integrated into an acupuncture practice.


Unit 3 gathers 72 common disorders in which microacupuncture techniques can be effective. This chapter’s material
appears in a standard presentation. Each section starts with an
introduction about the disorder, including recognized Western
medicine names for the condition, as well as a differential diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine terms. Next are the therapeutic treatments for each disorder; however, due to size
limitations, only a few common systems are listed. For some
conditions, if different or additional treatments are needed,
readers can reference Chapter 2 for more concepts, point locations, and treatments. The final part of each section gives a
summary detailing important information regarding treatment
that has been gathered from reference books and my personal
clinical experience. The standard presentation used in this
chapter makes it easy to locate information quickly.
Unit 4 lists 71 auxiliary massage therapies. The most
remarkable part of the micro-acupuncture system is the ability
to place the needles at locations that allow for physical activities
during the treatment. These physical activities include active
movement, passive movement, and massage. This auxiliary
massage chapter includes preventive self-massage techniques
that can be taught to patients for daily home care. Many of the
massage techniques listed here are my morning exercises that
have provided me many benefits over years of practice. Readers
can utilize these simple massage methods in combination with
acupuncture treatment, or introduce patients to self-massage
methods to achieve greater clinical results.
Micro-acupuncture has both benefits and limitations. It is
simple and easy to study, economical, practical, and safe. For
most of the micro-acupuncture techniques, there are no limitations on the positions of the patient’s body. However, because
micro-acupuncture is localized to a specific part of the body,
such as the head or hands and feet, this small area of stimulation
does not have as great a systemic reaction as macro-acupuncture
can, and thus the results of the micro-acupuncture therapy are
often more specific to the ailment being treated. In my opinion,
it is important to combine micro-acupuncture with macroacupuncture to achieve better clinical results. This is because the
two different systems are able to compensate for the disadvantages of the other system.
This book contains quite a bit of content that has come from
many years of reading, study, teaching, and clinical experience


that I have chosen to share. In particular, at the end of each section in Unit 2 there is a box labeled “What to Expect,” and at the
end of each section in Unit 3 there is a summary of each disease;
both places contain words of wisdom from my valuable years of
experience. Shared personal experience is precious, but I also
understand that there are limitations to one’s life and experience, so I gathered many peoples’ ideas to collaborate efforts for
furthering the development of micro-acupuncture. I truly
believe that micro-acupuncture as a branch of acupuncture will
benefit readers’ clinical practice, and I am interested in hearing
feedback from readers, about their opinion of this book and
their experience learning and practicing micro-acupuncture.

Distinctive Features of this Book
Micro-systems are very useful in our fast-paced society. A
micro-system point can easily be incorporated into a traditional
acupuncture treatment, and best of all, the patient can often be
sent home or allowed to do movement with a micro-system
needle still in place. This provides the acupuncture point with
constant stimulation and more opportunity to effect change.
This book contains many features that I believe will make it a
useful reference:
Well-structured format, allowing readers to use this book
from many different angles, for example, to gather detailed
information, as a quick reference, or to focus on one system
that interests them
Many photos and illustrations, so readers can have a clear
view of the concepts and a quick reference
Standardized sections for what to expect to give readers a
quick summary of the concepts, cautions and contraindications, and tips for practice
Routine summary sections in Unit 3 to give readers quick
practice information and reference
Many treatment protocols described in Units 2 and 3 for
easy learning and teaching
Most micro-acupuncture system techniques shown in
photos and illustrations to demonstrate the appropriate
treatment techniques
Clear photos and movements with word descriptions for
massage and self-care treatments that can be applied in a
practice or at home








I deeply appreciate all the support, patience, enthusiasm, and
encouragement from my colleagues, friends, patients, and students. Without their help and support, this book could not have
been written.
I give special thanks to Karen Nelson, Christine Kaiser, and
Dena Larsen for their help and hard work in gathering and
organizing the information, as well as help with design layout
and translation support.
I appreciate the work of many students at Bastyr University
for their help previewing and correcting medical terminology
and English grammar.
Many thanks to Tom Luerken, Marit Hanson, Onur
Aydinoglu, and Jason Robertson for their dedication and donation of their bodies for illustrations and photos. Their great
work made this book more attractive and complete.
I would also like to thank Beverly Kindblade, Amber
Blankenship, a Jessica Ross for their kind support and help with

preview and corrections. Their exceptional skill and opinions
helped the book-writing process greatly.
I am grateful to the Elsevier staff, with many thanks to Kellie
White, Kelly Milford, and Jennifer Watrous for their useful
guidelines, attentive care, and patience during the editorial
process. I would also like to thank Lois Schubert from Top
Graphics for her wonderful work on graphic design and the
photo process. I also appreciate the work of EK Photography for
their professionalism during our photo shoot and the resulting
high-quality photos.
Finally, I would like to thank my daughter, Shannon Gao, for
her patience, understanding, forgiveness, and sacrifice of family
time during the long process of writing this book. I would also
like to thank my father, Xi-Min Wang, and mother, Zhi Xia Zhu,
for leading me into my medical career.



Introduction to Micro-Acupuncture:
History and Theory
Micro-acupuncture is a special system of acupuncture that is
based on stimulating specific points in specific areas of the
human body to treat disease. Micro-acupuncture is easy to use,
economical, safe, and practical. It has a broad spectrum of uses
with an overall positive effect; it is used widely in diagnostics,
therapeutics, anesthesia, and preventive medicine. Microacupuncture theory is based on Chinese medicine, Western
medicine, and clinical experience; over time it has developed
into its own complete system. In the past 30 years, microacupuncture has become a more fully developed theory based
on research and clinical experience. The micro-acupuncture
system originated from different times, countries, and areas.
Although there are differences in origin, the common characteristic is groups of points located on specific parts of the body.
Each of the points reflects information of their internal organs
or tissues. This concept is clarified in the next section.
Bioholographic Theory

In 1973, Yin-Qing Zhang, a Chinese professor from Shan Dong
University of China, found a new group of acupuncture points
on the second metacarpal bone. From this discovery, he developed the bioholographic theory, which he called Embryo
Containing the Information of the Whole Organism (ECIWO).
Bioholographic theory comes from the idea of holographic
photographic technology, in which each part of the holographic
film contains an image of the whole object that was photographed. The bioholographic theory has developed very rapidly, not only in biologic fields, but also in biomedicine, which
includes holographic unit theory, holographic physiology and
pathology and point rule, and holographic diagnosis and treatment.
One of the most important findings of the bioholographic
theory is the concept of the holographic unit. The theory states,
all biological bodies are made from many holographic units,
each with their own characteristics and development. The
human body consists of many holographic units, each having
two characteristics. One of the characteristics relates to the
individual unit’s development and the other relates to the whole
body’s development. Each unit is not only a part of the body’s
structure, but it also plays a role in the body’s development. The
energy signal is transmitted from the skin to the corresponding
body organs. In other words, each part of the small units might
assimilate energetic signals from specific associated parts of the
human body.


Micro- and Macro-Acupuncture Systems

The current micro-acupuncture system is based on the holographic biologic theory as it was introduced by Ralph Alan
Dale, an American, in 1976. Dale separated all acupuncture
points into two systems depending on point distribution and
point characteristics. These systems are now known as the
macro-acupuncture system and the micro-acupuncture system.
In general, the macro-acupuncture system indicates the traditional meridian and point system, which is distributed over the
whole body, including the 12 meridians, 15 Luo meridians, and
8 extraordinary meridians. The micro-acupuncture system
indicates a point system in a specific part of the body. Dale
summarized all the micro-acupuncture systems, which came
from ancient China, modern China, France, Germany, India,
Japan, and America, including the 14 micro-acupuncture sections within the micro-systems. These sections include the ear,
hand, feet, abdomen, back, neck, scalp, face, nose, tongue, wrist,
ankle, arm, leg, and eye. Since Dale’s work, scientists and
acupuncture practitioners have continued to develop the
micro-systems, finding new sections in the body and adding
new information based on this theory. In fact, in traditional
Chinese medicine, face, tongue, and pulse diagnosis are models
of bioholographic theory. Abnormal pathology changes occur
in this area when internal organs have a problem or disease. By
using these changes to diagnose disease, needling or massaging
painful spots, the practitioner is able to treat internal disease.
The holographic theory has provided a strong foundation for
acupuncture point and meridian theories.
Ear System

The Huang Di Nei Jing describes the relationship, including the
physiology and pathology, between the ear and the human
body meridians and internal organs in great detail. The Nei
Jing describes meridians in the body as having a specific route
through the body. The six Yang meridians either run directly
into the ear, or around the side of the ear. The six Yin meridians connect with the ear directly or indirectly by other divergent meridians and connect with the Yang meridians. For
example, the Luo meridians of the hand Taiyin, foot Taiyin,
and foot Yangming directly connect to the ear. All the blood
goes to the face and head, and the essence goes to the eye,
thereby sending energy to the ear. This theory was adapted and
developed over thousands of years and continues to be developed today.
In the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) the doctor Si-Miao
Shuen detected the Er Zhong point, or Zero point, for the



Introduction to Micro-Acupuncture: History and Theory

first time. In 1946, F. L. Potter, an American doctor, reported
that people with a genetic kidney defect had a specific ear
shape. In 1956, research published in the Shan Dong province
of China indicated that ear acupuncture can treat acute tonsillitis. In 1957, French and German scientists (P. Nogier, L. R.
Boundig, and F. Bahr) developed the first ear acupuncture
points chart with the picture of the upside-down fetus on the
ear and 50 auricular micro-system points. They provided
detailed information to diagnose and treat diseases using the
ear. After Nogier’s work, Chinese acupuncturists proposed an
international standard for auricular nomenclature to the World
Health Organization (WHO) in 1987, and Er Zhong point was
included in that standard.
Scalp System

Chinese doctors used the holographic theory to invent scalp
acupuncture. This was a major advancement in the acupuncture field. Scalp micro-acupuncture theory has multiple systems of point location, diagnosis, and treatment. As early as the
New Stone Age, people used Bian Stone, which is a specific
shape of stone, to stimulate the head to relieve related diseases.
Following this was the invention of metal tools, the meridian
system and scalp acupuncture continued to develop. As discussed earlier, the Nei Jing identifies the head as the meeting
area of all the hand and foot meridians. The hand and foot
Yangming meridians distribute to the forehead and the face; the
hand and foot Shaoyang meridians distribute to the side of the
head; the hand Taiyang meridian distributes to the head and
neck; and the foot Taiyang meridian goes to the vertex and back
of the head. The six Yin meridians also travel to the head and
face. The hand Shaoyin and foot Jueyin meridians go to the
head and face directly, while all other meridians go through the
divergent meridians or connect via their internally or externally
related Yang meridian. Additionally, the Du meridian goes up to
the brain, to the top of the head, and ends at the nose. Ancient
texts recognize the head as the largest meeting area of all the
meridians; there are many points close together and abundant
energy and blood flow. Using acupuncture needles to stimulate
the scalp area, the practitioner can not only treat diseases of the
head, but also treat diseases of the whole body.
In the Song Dynasty (960–1204 AD), Dr. Wei-Yi Wang
published the Illustrated Manual of Acupoints on Bronze
Figure, which confirmed the head acupuncture points and is
still in use. Later, when Western medicine started to spread to
China, people began to learn new ideas about the structures
and functions of the brain. This information helped scalp
acupuncture research to evolve. Starting in the 1950s, practitioners began combining Western medicine and Chinese
acupuncture theory. Gradually a variety of different theories
on scalp/head acupuncture were developed. From clinical
experience and research, people discovered that using
acupuncture needles to stimulate a specific area of the head
could treat a specific area of disease on the body. Positive
results are seen especially for diseases that are caused by brain

Dr. Shuen-Fa Jiao from Shan Xi, China, theorized that
Western medicine’s view of brain structure and function indicates that there are cerebral contacts on the surface of the scalp.
He then used acupuncture needles to stimulate these specific
areas. Through much clinical research he discovered that corresponding areas in the body were affected. Through this research
he developed 16 specific stimulation areas on the scalp. Dr.
Yuen Peng Fang from Shan Xi, China, recognized that the configuration of sutures in the skull is a representation of the whole
body and developed head imaging scalp acupuncture. Dr.
Shong-Yan Tang from Shanghai, China, developed the theory of
the meridians and Chinese medicine. He separated the head into
Yin and Yang sections and set up points, lines, and areas to use
for treatment. Dr. Ke-Yan Cheng from Beijing, China, collected
all of these theories into traditional Chinese medicine. He also
incorporated tonification and sedation techniques into the
head micro-acupuncture system. In 1984, an international
meeting in Japan approved a proposal for an international standard of nomenclature for scalp acupuncture; this standard was
reconfirmed in 1989 by the WHO and continues to be used.
Hand System

The hand, which is one of the most developed micro-systems,
contains multiple systems within it. As early as the Ling Shu Hai
Luen, it is recorded that internally the 12 meridians belong to
the internal organs and externally they connect parts of the
body. This means in the human body, the 12 meridians have 3
Yang meridians and 3 Yin meridians that distribute to the hands
and feet. The hands and feet, in turn, are the connecting areas
for the Yin meridians and the Yang meridians. It is the place
where the human body’s Qi and blood connect. The hand and
foot Yin and Yang distribution, flow, pathologic symptoms, and
indications have been recorded. Clinical experience has shown
that the hand meridians have the function to adjust the whole
body’s Zang fu, Qi, and blood, as well as to treat disease. Hand
and foot acupuncture systems were developed based on ancient
Chinese medicine theories and is more recognized in the last 30
years because of the influence of the bioholographic theory.
China and South Korea developed several of their own systems.
Dr. Zhen-Hua Zhu started the hand point therapy based on the
meridian, holistic, and balance theories. He named 159 points
on the hand. Dr. Yuen-Peng Fang found three images of the
human body on the hand and developed the hand imaging
acupuncture system. Dr. Xin-Ming Wang discussed the hand
acupuncture point distribution, the meridians, and the relationship between the hand and internal organs. He published the
Hand Meridian Chart. Dr. Tae-Woo Yoo from South Korea
developed Koryo Hand Therapy, which has been adopted by
acupuncture practitioners worldwide and is very effectively
used today.
Eye System

Eye acupuncture therapy is based on the theory of the Nei Jing,
and the famous Dr. Hua Tuo, who observed the eyes to formulate his diagnosis. Doctor Jing-Shan Peng developed eye


acupuncture theory in the early 1970s. His ideas came from
classic Chinese medical sources; he used these ideas clinically,
and through much research invented this acupuncture therapy
to treat diseases of the body. The theory was recognized in 1986
and has since spread around the world. Two other doctors Dr.
Gou-Zhen Li and Dr. Gui-Quan Hang from Taiwan, China, also
published a book about eye acupuncture therapeutics based on
their clinic experiences.
Wrist and Ankle System

Wrist and ankle therapy was developed in the 1960s in
Shanghai, China. It is originally from Transcutaneous Electrical
Nerve Stimulation (TENS) electro-acupuncture therapy combined with traditional Chinese medicine theory. It was discovered that if electro-TENS were placed on certain points of the
six hand meridians and six foot meridians, such as P 6
(Nei Guan), SJ 5 (Wai Guan), Sp 6 (San Yin Jiao), and GB 39
(Xuan Zhong), all points had a good result in the clinic. Further
research revealed that if an electro-TENS was placed on the
anterior side of the wrist, there was a reaction in the anterior
and upper part of the body. It was also discovered that there is
a reaction in specific areas of the body with stimulation on
three Yang and three Yin meridians around the wrist or ankle
areas. So they set up 6 stimulation points around the wrist and
ankle area to treat diseases in 12 different regions of the body.
Based on many successful clinical cases, this form of treatment
was named wrist and ankle acupuncture therapy in 1975.

The micro-acupuncture system is a significant improvement to
the macro-acupuncture system and its history. The microacupuncture systems will continue to develop improvements
and be adopted by practitioners around the world.
Micro-acupuncture system diagnosis and therapeutics has
been developing quickly over the past 30 years and has gradually become more complete. Scientists and clinical practitioners in this field have emphasized its use more and more. Many
countries are still doing research for deeper study and collecting data from clinical experiments. In this introduction, many
micro-acupuncture systems are mentioned briefly that are
well known around the world. There are many other fields
being established. In this book, information is collected as
much as possible about micro-acupuncture systems around
the world. Some of the information has been adapted by international standards from the WHO. Some of the systems are
very well developed and are used widely and effectively. Some
of the systems are still in their beginning, waiting for more
clinic experience to prove their effectiveness. The macro- and
micro-acupuncture systems are the two most significant
branches of modern acupuncture practice.

Micro-System Theory
Although the micro-acupuncture systems were formed in different time periods and different geographic areas, they are all

Introduction to Micro-Acupuncture: History and Theory


based on traditional Chinese medical theory, modern medicine,
and long-term clinical experience. The common characteristic
of these systems is that all points are located in one specific part
of the body but all represent the whole body. Each system has a
different degree of representation, since some represent organs,
others represent channels, and yet others, the whole body.
Bioholographic Theory

Micro-acupuncture system theory is based on the bioholographic theory. In the bioholographic theory, the human body
is viewed as a complete, holistic unit. Any independent part of
the body is called a holographic embryo, or an Embryo
Containing the Information of the Whole Organism (ECIWO).
This means that each unit is a smaller representation of the
whole body. The ancient Greeks used the name homunculus
(Latin for “little man”) for this concept. Their theory stated that
the whole body was contained or represented by smaller units
on the body. In classic theory this was the body’s germ cells.
Modern neuroanatomy used this concept to map the sensory
perceptions of the body to a homunculus on the brain. Microacupuncture theory is similar to these theories of the
homunculus in that the entire body is represented within several smaller units of the body. It is not only a part of the body’s
structure but also plays a role in the body’s development. Each
unit of the independent part of the body has a relationship with
and continuously exchanges information with the whole body.
In other words, each of the small units assimilates energetic signals from specific parts of the human body (Figure 1-1 A, B, C).
There are groups of points that are associated with the whole
body’s internal organs and tissues at each unit. The point distribution is always connected from the nearest to the farthest at
the longitudinal line, such as the four extremities. For example,
the foot point of the forearm connects with the head point of
the upper arm. The points distributed also are small ratios of
the human body. For example, both the forearm and the upper
arm have separate human body figures. This holographic
embryo can reflect the pathologic changes of the body.
Therefore, if the human body is diseased at a local area or an
internal organ, the related bioholographic points will have
abnormal changes such as itching, pain, and abnormal sensation. The micro-systems and the body units have the holographic features. These holographic units can be used to
diagnose and treat disease (Figure 1-2).
Traditional Chinese Medicine Meridian Theory

Chinese meridian theory and Chinese medicine fundamentals
are the basis of micro-system theory. Acupuncture points reflect
the body’s physiological and pathological condition. The points
are also the treatment locations. These points are connected by
meridians also called Jing Luo. Jing means the path; it is the main
pathway of the meridian system. The meridian connects points
from the top to the bottom and internal to external. Luo means
web. The Luo meridians are a branch of the Jing meridians and
are smaller but can connect all of the small parts of the body like
a web. The Jing Luo connects the internal organs to the end of




Introduction to Micro-Acupuncture: History and Theory



FIGURE 1-1 A, Fang Scalp Acupuncture system. A homunculus figure of the top of the scalp area. B, New Nose Acupuncture system. A homunculus figure on

local area of the nose. C, The somatotopic map of the ear. A homunculus figure is viewed with the head facing downward and feet upward.

the extremities and the internal organs with the exterior of the
body. With these meridians, the entire human body’s functions
can be coordinated to keep the body in balance. During an
acupuncture treatment, after a differential diagnosis is made,
tonifying or sedating needle technique is used.
Micro-system theory is based on Chinese medicine theory,
meridian theory, and mechanisms of Western medicine. The
micro-acupuncture system is a specific treatment area that contains information about the entire body. Through reflex activities such as neuro-regulations, humoral regulations, and auto
regulations, micro-acupuncture is used to treat the disease. By
using stimulation techniques to activate a specific area of the
human body, the internal organs connect with the extremities.
Chinese Fundamental Theory: Yin-Yang

Yin-Yang theory is based on two interpretations of natural phenomena. Yin represents influences in nature such as cold, dark,
night, and passiveness, whereas Yang represents influences in
nature such as warm, light, day, and activeness. Chinese medicine is based on Yin-Yang and Five Element theories and how
they are applied to the human body’s physiology and pathology.
There are four rules for the relationship of Yin and Yang:
Opposition of Yin and Yang
Interdependence of Yin and Yang
Interconsuming-supporting relationship of Yin and Yang
Intertransformational relationship of Yin and Yang
The Qi and blood circulation from the Yin channel to the
Yang channel represent the interdependence of Yin and Yang in
their physical functions and the regulation of Qi and blood circulation. The end of the three Yin channels with the start of the
three Yang channels represents the interconsuming-supporting




relationship of the Yin and Yang. The channel Qi that moves
from the Yin to the Yang represents the inter-transformation of
Yin and Yang. In the micro-acupuncture system, there are many
parts that represent the Yin and Yang through the physical
tissue structure, physical function, pathology, diagnosis, and
therapeutics. Thus, the micro-acupuncture system’s formation
and development also contains Yin-Yang and Five Element
rules. For example, in the hand, the palm and dorsal sides of the
hand represent the opposition of Yin and Yang. The palm side
represents Yin and the dorsal side represents Yang.
Root and Branch, Origins and Ends Theory

Root and branch is the theory that talks about meridian energy
flow at the origin and end. It is based on the meridian distribution and further explains the energy’s relationship to the internal with external and the superior with inferior. It is a better
way to explain the functions and indications of the head, chest,
abdomen, and four extremities. Where the channel Qi originates is called the root, and the limbs are called the origin.
Where the channel Qi ends is the branch, and the head and
trunk are the end, or end of the channel. The root is the Jing
well points at the ends of the four extremities. The branch is
located at the head, chest, and abdomen. In recent years,
research has found that the root and branch are not only
located on the one point but are spread around a specific area.
So, the four extremities’ specific points (such as the Jing well,
Ying spring, etc.) are all called the root area. But the head, chest,
and abdominal relative areas are all called the branch, or end. In
the 12 channels, the root starts on the hands and feet and ends
at the specific area of the head, chest, and abdomen. All Yang
channels end at the head and face and all Yin channels end at
the chest and abdomen. Through the Yin and Yang influence,


Low abdomen
Low abdomen

Low abdomen

Low abdomen

Low abdomen
Low abdomen

Low abdomen

FIGURE 1-2 Bioholographic theory shows each holistic unit, called Embryo
Containing the Information of the Whole Organism (ECIWO). The point distribution is always connected from the nearest to the farthest at the longitudinal line
of the body.

external and internal relationships will become the whole web
to form the channel network of the body. So the origin and root
area not only treats local disease but can also treat the end and
branch area of the whole-body disease. In other words, the end
and branch area treats the local disease around the chest and
abdomen, as well as the origin and root area disease.
Yuan Source and Mu Theory

The Yuan source point is where the meridian energy passes and
stops at the hands or feet. The Mu point is the internal organ
energy-collecting area at the chest or abdomen. The 12 meridians all have one Yuan source point at the hands or feet and all
have one Mu point at the chest or abdomen. The Yuan source
point is used to stimulate the meridian’s internal organ energy
and matches the root and branch theory. Most of the Mu points

Introduction to Micro-Acupuncture: History and Theory


on the chest and abdomen are not points on their own meridians, but treat the internal organs because the point is located at
that organ area. In micro-system theory, for example, head
acupuncture is based on this Front Mu theory. If a patient is
paralyzed from a brain disorder, we use scalp acupuncture on
the patient’s scalp. This is the same idea as using the Mu point
to treat the local organ.

Characteristics of Micro-Acupuncture Systems
Micro-acupuncture systems can treat a variety of diseases. In
the past 30 years, these systems have developed rapidly and can
be used for multiple indications.
Multiple Indications

The micro-acupuncture system is widely used for treating the
respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, urinary-reproductive,
endocrine, nervous, and immune systems. It is also used to
treat diseases such as women’s health disorders, pediatric disorders, osteopathic conditions, and diseases located on the
face. It can treat functional conditions, as well as severe conditions. The conditions that can be treated using the macroacupuncture system can mostly be treated using the
micro-acupuncture system. For some conditions, such as acute
injury, smoking cessation, chemical dependency, insomnia,
and hypertension, micro-acupuncture can be very effective.
In recent years, the micro-acupuncture system is used more
and more to prevent disease, to support health, and for facial
Positive Results

The micro-acupuncture system is a small ratio of the body and
reflects and represents important bodily information. Working
on the specific part of the micro-acupuncture system is like
working on the internal organs directly, so results are very positive and direct. The micro-acupuncture system can treat many
acute conditions, especially diseases with pain. For acute pain
conditions, there are usually immediate results. For chronic
pain control, results are usually less dramatic than for acute
conditions. For surgery, use of micro-acupuncture anesthesia
also shows good results and has a bright future. Each of the
micro-acupuncture systems also has its own specialty to treat a
variety of diseases.
Simple and Economical

Micro-acupuncture system treatment is simple and economical, since there is no need for special equipment and no limit
from the practitioner’s surroundings. It is also easy to perform.
Any health practitioner can understand the micro-acupuncture
system without having to become thoroughly trained in traditional medicine, because the micro-acupuncture system is
a small reflex system that acts on internal organs directly.
For better results, the therapist can activate the exact organs
by stimulating micro-acupuncture points. Knowledge of the
locations of internal organs and tissues is common knowledge



Introduction to Micro-Acupuncture: History and Theory

for any health practitioner. For diagnosis, the most common
technique is to apply pressure and watch what occurs or use a
simple electro-detector. Therapeutic treatment usually uses
filiform needles, balls, massage, or bleeding, all of which are
simple and inexpensive.
Safe and Practical

Micro-acupuncture uses no medication and therefore has no
drug-related side effects. It is a way to stimulate the micro reflex
area to let internal organs respond and follow up for self-adjustment to reach balance and healing of the disease. It also uses
stimulation away from the internal organs, so there is no fear of
organ injury. Micro-acupuncture uses fewer needles and the
needles are inserted in shallow locations, so there are no complications such as a stuck or broken needle, making it safe and
practical to use.
Easy to Teach

Micro-acupuncture system points are all close together and
have a special pattern. This makes it easy to study and learn
and because it is easy to learn, it is easy for the microacupuncture information to be shared and dispersed. The
practitioner does not have to learn all of the traditional
Chinese medical knowledge to practice this system.
Practitioners can learn one or multiple systems based on their
interests and needs.
Special Characteristics

Micro-acupuncture systems have special characteristics and
good results, both of which make up for the insufficiencies of
the macro-acupuncture system. For example, macro-acupuncture is not ideal for a situation in which a patient is in pain with
muscle cramps and is afraid to have needles inserted in painful
areas or there are negative results when using needles directly
on the problem area. The micro-acupuncture system addresses
this situation by treating areas away from the area of pain and
still achieves good results. If micro-acupuncture and macroacupuncture systems are used in combination, there are even
better results from the treatments.
No Limitations of Patient Position

A significant advantage of the micro-acupuncture system is that
there are no limitations on patient positions. Any position is
suitable for the patient as long as the patient is comfortable.
Often we see patients in our clinic who are in terrible pain and
are unable to sit or lie down. The practitioner can first use
micro-acupuncture to relieve the pain and then place the
patient in a regular treatment position.

Easy to Activate Qi

Another advantage of the micro-acupuncture system is that it
allows the patient to move or have the practitioner apply different techniques on the targeted area while the needles remain in
place. Based on characteristics of the bioholographic theory, the
same information can occur at many different parts of the
body. For example, heart problems can show sensitive spots on
the hands, feet, eyes, nose, face, and so on. The practitioner can
choose points from any of the systems and stimulate the targeted organs or tissues during the treatment. Because of this
feature of the micro-acupuncture system, there is no limit in
letting the patient activate Qi. Very good results can be obtained
for many different situations.
Long-term Stimulation

Micro-acupuncture can be used for long-term treatment
because most of the system is not on moveable locations of the
body such as the ear, nose, and some areas of the face, and the
needles are inserted very shallowly, avoiding deep muscles, tendons, and nerves. The patient can keep the needles in place for
several days. Micro-acupuncture can therefore continue to provide needle stimulation to work on the body without placing
any limitations on daily activities.
Sensitive Locations

One of the common characteristics of micro-acupuncture
systems is that almost all the different systems are located in
sensitive and flexible areas of the body such as hands, feet, nose,
and ears. There are many different nerve endings and blood
vessels in these areas, so it is easy to obtain a response to the
stimulation and get good results. It is common to insert a single
needle and immediately induce a hot, tingly feeling through the
patient’s whole body or pathways. This is why the ears, face,
and hands are used for acupuncture anesthesia during surgical
Similar Qualities with the Body

Some micro-acupuncture systems have some characteristics of
the entire body. Points are distributed on both sides of the Yin
and Yang parts such as hands, feet, and ears. The palm side of the
hand, the plantar side of the foot, and depression areas usually
indicate the Yin side of the body or internal organs. The points
located on the Yin side of these systems usually are more sensitive than the points located on the Yang side. In other words, the
body parts more exposed to the outside environment will have
less sensation than the parts that are less exposed. On the human
body, the Yin or medial side of the body is more sensitive to
stimulation than the Yang or lateral side of the body.

Micro-System Techniques

The micro-acupuncture system is an important element of
acupuncture theory. However, it is also a specific system. In the
past 30 years it has developed rapidly because it has a specific
needle technique and characteristics. There are many methods
for needling in micro-acupuncture systems. Some of them have
been adapted from ancient techniques with work in different
styles and purposes. Some of the techniques have been specifically developed for the micro-acupuncture system. They not
only can incorporate micro-acupuncture into the macroacupuncture system to achieve a better result, but microacupuncture can also replace some of the insufficient aspects of
macro-acupuncture. The following are summaries of several
different techniques based on research and clinical experience.

Active Qi Technique
Theory of Active Qi Therapy

The most beneficial part of using active Qi therapy in microacupuncture is that it does not limit the patient’s position and
range of movement. The patient can do all kinds of active and
passive physical activities, as well as receive auxiliary activities.
Active Qi means leading Qi, moving Qi, and making Qi go
to the target. The active Qi technique is not only achieved
through the practitioner’s hand, but it can also be achieved
through the patient. The theory behind the active Qi is based on
Shen, movement, and openness.
SHEN: Shen is the chief activity in active Qi technique.
Chinese medicine believes that Jing, Qi, and Shen, also called
essence, energy, and spirit, are the three treasures of the human
body. Shen is the chief commander of the body; Jing is the
source of the body foundation; and Qi is the functional result
of the body. The three are intertwined and cannot be separated,
but the Shen has the function of chief commander. Shen is the
manifestation of the human vital energies. It is also the image
of the spirit and consciousness of the human body. Use the
Shen from the practitioner to treat the Shen of the patient. Use
the Shen to lead activity and use activity to adjust Qi. Use Qi to
match the Shen and use Shen to follow the needle activity.
Therefore, the Shen, needle, and Qi combine to work on the
area of disease.
MOVEMENT: Movement is the active format of the active Qi.
Regardless of whether the treatment uses active, passive, or auxiliary physical activity, movement is used through part or all of
the treatment. Therefore, movement is the core and foundation
of active Qi therapy. Through movement, not only is there
improvement to the metabolism and cell functions in the


human body, but also the muscles contract or relax, blood vessels constrict or dilate, the lungs expand and contract, and
nerves excite or restrain, resulting in changes and improvements in the internal aspects of the human body.
OPENNESS: Openness is seen in the results of the treatment.
In traditional Chinese medicine, there is a belief that pain
comes from obstruction. Use Shen as the chief commander and
acupuncture or other activities to create movement in the body
to achieve opened meridians and to activate Qi and blood. The
result is pain relief based on whether meridians are open, Qi is
active, or Qi reaches the diseased area.
Methods of Active Qi Therapy

ACTIVE: Active Qi therapy means the practitioner inserts
needles into the patient’s body, and the patient will perform all
movements unassisted.
Body Active The practitioner inserts the needle into the
body, elicits Qi, and performs a tonification or sedation technique. In the meantime, the patient performs active physical
movements. In the clinic, this is used for acute or chronic problems in the joints or soft tissues, such as neck, shoulder, elbow,
lumbar, knee, and ankle pain.
Breathing Active The practitioner inserts the needle and elicits a Qi response. In the meantime, the patient does different frequencies of breathing, such as quickly or slowly, or breathing
from the chest or from the abdomen. This method is able to
improve functions of autonomic nerves and increase acupuncture results. Use this technique for patients who have Qi imbalance conditions such as coughing, asthma, hiccups, chest pain,
hypochondriac area pain, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Massage Active The practitioner inserts the needles, manipulates them, and obtains Qi. In the meantime, the patient massages himself or herself in the affected area. This technique is
used for all kinds of pain, numbness, scar tissue adhesions,
abdominal fullness, constipation, and incontinence.
Mental Active The practitioner inserts the needles, manipulates them, and elicits Qi while the patient uses his or her mind
to lead the energy flow by meditation, concentrating on words,
or counting numbers. This method is used for functional disorders, such as high blood pressure, arrhythmia, irregular menses,
sexual dysfunction, paralysis due to hysteria or mental instability, smoking cessation, addictions, and weight loss.
PASSIVE: In passive Qi therapy, the practitioner inserts needles
into the patient’s body, and then assists the patient in performing
passive range of motion. This technique is used for patients who
are unable to move or who cannot move in clinical situations.



Micro-System Techniques

Body Passive Activity The practitioner inserts the needle and
elicits Qi. The practitioner assists the patient in doing passive
activity. This technique is used in conditions where the patient
does not have enough strength or ability to do the movement,
such as a patient with paralysis, vomiting, gallstones, or urinary
Tui Na for Passive Activity The practitioner inserts the needle
and elicits Qi, while also performing Tui Na, acupressure, massage, or manipulation on the related areas to treat the disease.
This method is used for motor and nervous system disorders.
The practitioner can perform passive massage or manipulations
on the patient during or after acupuncture treatment. This
technique increases the energy flow and helps enhance
acupuncture treatment results. The practitioner can use massage or manipulation on the diseased area first, and then apply
needles on selected micro-acupuncture points to send energy to
the diseased area more effectively. Conversely, the practitioner
can insert the needles first in the micro-acupuncture system
then apply the manipulations on the diseased area to get the Qi
response. This method is useful for patients with weakness or
those who have low somatic sensitivity.
Qi Gong Passive Activity This method combines Qi Gong
with acupuncture or acupressure. The practitioner inserts the
needle into the body while also applying Qi Gong on the
patient. The practitioner uses his or her internal Qi for direct or
indirect distribution to the patient or the specific problem area.
This method is used for the patient who is afraid of needles,
who has muscle spasms, or who is in severe pain.
Mental Passive Activity The practitioner inserts the needle
and elicits Qi. The practitioner then leads the patient’s mind
through guided meditation. This technique uses words to lead
the patient’s imagination and help guide the energy flow to heal
the disease and relieve pain.
Moving Needle Technique In the moving needle technique, the
needle is inserted quickly, Qi is obtained, and the needle is then
quickly removed. It is best to follow the entire meridian, such as
the Large Intestine meridian, starting at the first point on the
meridian and continuing to the last point. Focus on eliciting Qi
at specific points, such as the Jing well, Ying spring, and so on.
This can also be used on micro-systems, such as on the Du
meridian of the hand in the Koryo system, or the practitioner can
insert needles on each individual micro-acupuncture system.
Moving moxibustion is used with a traditional moxa stick to
perform rotation and running moxa to help the Qi follow the
channel to reach the diseased area. This is used for any kind of
Qi stagnation condition or where the Qi needs to be led.
Cold or Heat Pad A cold pad stimulates local vessels to contract and reduce swelling to help stop bleeding. Shortly after
removing the cold pad the local vessels will expand. In cases of
acute soft tissue injury, especially within 24 hours, a cold pad is
the preferred method of treatment.
Heating pads increase local vessel expansion to improve
blood circulation, and are used for chronic injuries. Sometimes
the patient notices that the symptoms are getting worse due
to heat leading to temporary abundant blood flow, but this

should resolve quickly. Heating pads are usually better than
cold pads, especially for patients who have chronic conditions
as they have better long-term results for disease recovery.
AUXILIARY ACTIVITY: This is when the practitioner does the
acupuncture treatment while instructing the patient to use his
or her ears, nose, eyes, heart, and brain to do auxiliary activities.
Music The practitioner inserts the needles while the patient
listens to therapeutic music with different rhythms that match
the patient’s condition. This is used for mood swings or unstable emotions and functional disorders. Research has found that
when the patient is in a relaxed state, it is easier for the energy
to follow the meridians in order to help the patient achieve
better results from the treatment. The therapeutic music helps
the patient relax and improve the function of the cerebral
cortex of the brain. From clinical experience, relaxation
has better results than sleeping. The patient stays alert but is
able to ignore surrounding noises and activities. The best
state is when the patient has almost but not quite fallen asleep.
Usually the treatment length should be kept to 15 to 20 minutes.
Tiredness or depression may occur if the patient lies on the
table for too long and falls asleep deeply, which makes the
patient feel that the acupuncture treatment was a negative
Breathing This technique lets the patient breathe in herbs or
aromatic fragrances during the acupuncture treatment. It stimulates sensory nerve reactions, and different stimulations can
cause different responses in the body.
Color The practitioner inserts the needles while the patient
looks at different colors on a picture, using the patient’s vision
to cause a different response in the body. The different colors
not only decorate the environment but also create psychological, physiological, and pathological changes in the human body.
Red, purple, yellow, gold, and brown colors are Yang colors
and treat Yang deficient patients with symptoms of fatigue,
aversion to cold, and diarrhea. Blue, green, silver, white, and
dark green colors are Yin colors and treat excess Yang conditions with hyperactivity, such as irritability, palpitations, pain,
and fever.
Counselor This is a highly effective method used with
acupuncture treatments. The practitioner uses spiritual support, suggestion support, and behavioral support to encourage the patient. During the acupuncture treatment it is
important for patients to believe that it is an effective way to
help them. First, the practitioner answers any questions the
patient might have, shares clinical experiences, and shares case
examples. Therefore, the first appointment and follow-up
counseling are necessary. Second, the patient needs to trust
the practitioner, including patient referrals, and have confidence in the practitioner and the treatment results. The way
your professional practice is run, such as the practice setting,
marketing, and networking, are also important. Next, focus on
the treatment results, especially if this is the patient’s first
experience with acupuncture. This is an important step in
building up the patient’s confidence to continue to receive


Herbal Plaster or Herbal Bath Combining acupuncture with
an external herbal plaster is a therapy used to help stimulate
bodily functions in order to prevent disease. Some examples
include herbal stick, herbal bath, herbal plaster, herbal steam,
and herbals blown into orifices. Herbal combinations with
acupuncture usually can change patients’ internal environment
and enhance the response to acupuncture. For the patient who
has been taking or using herbal remedies for a while, but
without obvious results, adding herbals to acupuncture can
open meridians and let the herbs act effectively and directly on
the target area or increase the effect of the herbs. Herbal baths
can combine well with micro-acupuncture, especially hand, ear,
and nose. The point of the herbal bath is to change the patient’s
body temperature to affect his or her response to the acupuncture treatment. The patient can take herbal baths at home while
the needles are still in place for continuous stimulation.
Acupuncture with Gua Sha and Running Cupping This therapy
combines acupuncture with Gua Sha and running cupping.
It is a popular and common combination used in microacupuncture treatments. The practitioner inserts the needles at
distal points, which is where most micro-acupuncture points
are located. These points correspond to the associated internal
organ. The practitioner then applies Gua Sha or running cupping on the part of the body to be stimulated. This technique is
used for many diseases, such as high blood pressure, dizziness,
headaches, anemia, heat stroke, common cold, insomnia, neck
pain, palpitations, external injury, chronic fatigue syndrome,
rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, low appetite, constipation, sciatic
nerve pain, abdominal menses, arthritis, tumors, and weight

Active Needle Technique
In active needle therapy, the painful point is found during the
physical activity, and the practitioner inserts a needle into this
painful point. At the beginning of the acupuncture treatment,
have the patient move in the most painful position for him or
her. The patient holds this position as the practitioner finds the
local painful points. The needle is then inserted into these
painful points. When needling into the point, perform the
high-frequency shaking and vibration technique. The frequency required is up to 200 times per minute. Have the patient
continually repeat movement into this painful position until
pain is reduced or disappears.
Active needle therapy functions to open meridians, invigorate blood, and stop pain. It is effective for a patient with acute
or chronic soft tissue injury that causes channel blockage by
blood stasis, which causes pain.
In clinical practice, expect the patient to have difficulty with
continual movement when needling into the point. By using the
specific areas on the micro-system, this difficulty can be
avoided, and the patient can continue to do physical activity
without limiting his or her range of motion. For example, a
patient with low back pain moves into the painful position, and
the practitioner places a needle into the Ashi point and initiates

Micro-System Techniques


high-frequency manipulation until the pain is reduced.
However, the patient may have a problem continuing physical
activity with the needle in place, so using the micro-system’s
low back point, such as on the hands, ears, philtrum, or feet,
would be a better option to continue the treatment.
This technique has three basic characteristics, or three activities. When choosing a point, choose the point that is painful
when active. This is called moving with pain technique. Another
technique is to insert the needle while the patient is moving,
called moving with insertion. Last, let the patient choose a position in which he or she will be needled. Be sure it is a position
in which the patient can do movement and physical activity.
This is called the moving with position technique.

Running Needle Technique
Running needle therapy is also called running connecting
points therapy. In this technique, a filiform needle is inserted
into one point and the needle is run to another point. One
needle can be used to connect and stimulate two points or multiple points. This technique connects the energy flow from
point to point, from meridian to meridian, or between multiple
meridians. This connection of energy flow allows for the open
flow of Qi, blood, Ying Qi, and Wei Qi. This can enhance the
power of the stimulation and make the needle sensation easy to
distribute. This technique also allows for fewer needle insertions, so it is more tolerable.
There are three techniques for running needle therapy:
transverse running insertion, perpendicular running insertion,
and multiple-direction running insertion.
Transverse Running Insertion

This is using a filiform needle and inserting it at the subcutaneous tissue layer. Move the needle in the direction of another
point in the subcutaneous tissue. Make sure the needle does not
come out of the subcutaneous tissue or is inserted deeper than
the subcutaneous tissue, but that it always stays under the skin.
In micro-acupuncture systems, this technique is commonly
used on scalp acupuncture, wrist and ankle acupuncture, face
acupuncture, spine acupuncture, and back Shu acupuncture
(Figure 2-1).
Perpendicular Running Insertion

This technique is primarily used at the four extremities. The
technique is to insert the needle from medial to lateral or anterior to posterior. The practitioner inserts the needle on one
point and performs running needling to the other side of the
point. As a standard, the needle should go through the tissues to
a certain degree but not exit out of the skin on the other side.
Multiple-Direction Running Insertion

This technique uses a filiform needle inserted into one point to
elicit Qi. Then the needle is withdrawn to the subcutaneous
tissue of the original point and redirected at a different point
for multiple-point stimulation. In the micro-system, the most



Micro-System Techniques


FIGURE 2-1 This is a transverse running insertion technique. It uses a filiform needle inserted at the subcutaneous

tissue layer.

FIGURE 2-3 Centralized insertion of the group stimulation technique.
FIGURE 2-2 The multiple-direction running insertion technique uses a

filiform needle inserted into one point to multiple directions.

common areas where this technique is used are in nose
acupuncture’s upper Jiao, middle Jiao, and lower Jiao techniques (Figure 2-2).
Group Stimulation Technique

Group stimulation therapy means using multiple needles to
insert in one point or a group of points together to increase the
power of the stimulation. Group stimulation is developed from
the traditional ancient technique, the “Yang stimulation technique,” also called “Yang Ci.” The difference is that group stimulation therapy uses more needles and a wider area in
comparison with the Yang stimulation technique.
Centralized Stimulation Technique

This technique uses multiple needles inserted into one centralized point or small area. Choose a needle about 0.5 to 1.0 cun
in length, 30 to 34 gauge, and insert it into a centralized point
or small area from many different directions. In the microsystem, this technique is used mostly with scalp acupuncture.
When inserting needles on Du 20 (Bai Hui), Qian Shen Chong,
Hou Shen Chong, Zhou Shen Chong, and You Shen Chong,
first insert needles on Du 20 (Bai Hui), and then insert the four
other needles toward the Du 20 (Bai Hui), point to increase the
power of insertion (Figure 2-3).
Decentralized Stimulation Technique

Use 1.0 to 1.5 cun, 30 to 34 gauge filiform needles and insert
them into multiple points or a wider area. Use from a few to

many needles. The distance between the needles can be up to
0.5 to 1.0 cm. Insert with a perpendicular, oblique, or transverse insertion. In the micro-acupuncture system, this technique is mostly used with neck acupuncture. Have the
patient sit with his or her head slightly forward to expose the
back of the neck. Except for the Xia Nao Hu point, all the
neck points should be inserted perpendicularly with the skin
but at an angle with the curvature of the neck. Insert the needles 0.5 to 1.0 cun deep, and use up to 27 points on the neck
(Figure 2-4).

Distance Needle Technique
In the distance needle technique, points are chosen based on
the disease; for conditions in the upper part of the body,
choose points in the lower part of the body or choose points
along the meridians at the distal part of the body. For conditions located at the head, face, trunk, and Zang Fu, choose
points distal to the elbow and knee. In micro-acupuncture
systems, this treatment is common, especially in combination
with the Back Shu points and the Ashi points in the local area
and the Front Mu points. This technique is commonly used
with hand acupuncture, foot acupuncture, wrist and ankle
acupuncture, and ear and nose acupuncture. During the treatment, we can stimulate specific distal areas in the hands, feet,
and ears to elicit Qi and use the technique to stimulate meridian Qi directly to the diseased area. Next, choose the proximal
point, such as in combination with the Back Shu, Front Mu, or
local points. This treatment is more effective when combined
with macro-acupuncture because the practitioner uses


Micro-System Techniques


FIGURE 2-4 Decentralized insertion of the group stimulation technique.

macro-acupuncture points to work directly on the system or
local diseased area in addition to selected reflex points on the
micro-acupuncture system to work indirectly on specific

Opposite Deep Technique
Opposite deep therapy is also called “Ju Ci therapy.” In this
technique, disease is treated by inserting needles on the side of
the body opposite the disease—for a disease on the left side of
the body, select a point on the right side; for a disease on the
right side of the body, select a point on the left side. This is
because the Zang fu energy flow connects the external tissues
with the internal organs. The 12 meridians connect with the
Ren and Du meridians, therefore energy is circulated. For
example, the hand and foot three-Yang meridians all meet at
Du 14 (Da Zhui) on the Du meridian. The foot three-Yin
meridians also meet at Ren 3 (Zhong Ji) and Ren 4 (Guang
Yuan) on the Ren meridian, so that the meridian energy flow
will connect from the left to the right side of the body.
Therefore if a left-sided meridian has a disease, choose points
on the right-sided meridian; if a right-sided meridian has a disease, choose points on a left-sided meridian. The opposite deep
therapy can also use a point on the contralateral side of the
body with the same problem area, same meridian, and same
point. In the clinic, two different techniques can be used:
1. Choose a point on the side that is contralateral and opposite
to the diseased side.
2. Choose points that are bilateral and that are on both sides of
the diseased area.
The opposite deep therapy needles will be inserted into the
meridians so they are somewhat deep. With insertion into the
meridian, the main purpose is to elicit Qi; therefore the technique should be deep, heavy, and strong and focused mainly on
the diseased meridian. Clinically, it is common to see meridian
Qi stagnation cause a whole-body disease. Indications include
pain conditions, four-extremity numbness, dysfunction and
limited range of motion, migraine headaches, toothache, sciatic
nerve pain, intercostal nerve pain, stroke, and deviated mouth
and eye due to a stroke. Micro-acupuncture therapy uses the
opposite deep therapy for many systems. For example, scalp

FIGURE 2-5 In opposite deep therapy for a disease on the left side of the
body, a point is selected on the right side; for a disease on the right side, select
a point on the left side.

acupuncture applies needles on the right side of the scalp for
conditions on the left side of the body (Figure 2-5).

Opposite Shallow Technique
Opposite shallow therapy is also called “Liao Ci therapy.” This
therapy is similar to the opposite deep therapy in that both are
based on the theory that disease on the right side of the body is
treated with points on the left side of the body and vice versa.
The difference from the opposite deep therapy, which inserts
needles into the meridians, is that the opposite shallow therapy
inserts needles into the Luo meridians. The Luo meridians’ distribution is rather shallow, so the technique for the opposite
shallow therapy should be shallow and light to treat Luo meridian conditions. The clinical technique most used is bloodletting
to treat Luo meridian conditions. Opposite shallow therapy
mostly have indications that are external pathogenic conditions, heat conditions, sore throat, tonsillitis, headache, heat
stroke, and coma. It is also effective for some internal organ diseases, such as palpitations, irritability, asthma, chest pain, stroke,
arthritis, soft tissue injury, and sciatic nerve pain. Opposite
shallow therapy is widely used in the micro-acupuncture
system, because the micro-acupuncture system’s specific locations are mostly located at the ends of the four extremities and
the meridian Qi is rather shallow. In conclusion, shallow stimulation, as well as bloodletting therapy, is commonly used.

Response Needle Technique
Response needle therapy is also called “Bao Chi therapy.” In this
therapy, the patient directs the practitioner to the painful area,
which is also called the Ashi point. The practitioner inserts the
needle at this point and then uses his or her other hand to move
along the meridian or around that area to find another painful
spot. After finding another painful spot, the practitioner
removes the needle from the original spot and inserts a needle



Micro-System Techniques

into the new area. This technique of repeated discovery and treatment of more painful areas is called “response needle therapy.”
The number of needles inserted into painful spots depends on
how many painful spots there are in that area. In the clinic, use
the pressure meridian technique to stimulate Qi, to lead Qi, or
in the management of a stuck needle.
The practitioner has the patient point out the most painful
area, and then the practitioner uses his or her hand to apply
pressure on that area to find the most painful spot. The needle
is then inserted into that point. Retain the needle in that area
while using the other hand to follow the meridian up and down
or around the painful area to find new Ashi points. After finding new Ashi points, remove the first needle and insert a new
needle into the second painful spot. Repeat this procedure until
the painful spots are completely gone. In the clinic, remove one
needle and then insert another, or retain all the needles while
continuing to find new spots. This therapy functions to move
Qi and relieve pain, and it is mostly used for the patient who has
multiple areas of pain where the pain changes location.
In the micro-acupuncture system, response needle therapy is
commonly used for the Back Shu system, because the Zang Fu
energy always flows from the meridian to respond to the surface
of the area. Therefore, with diseased internal organs, most practitioners find the Ashi point corresponding to the Back Shu
point to be painful. Use the moving technique to help move Qi
and relieve pain to eliminate pathogenic conditions.

Cross Needle Technique
The cross needle technique was developed from the Pang Ci
technique, which was first recorded in the Nei Jing. The Pang Ci
technique uses two needles for insertion and has three different
1. The first style is to insert a needle perpendicular to a point,
and then insert another needle next to the first, running
toward it with an oblique insertion. The purpose is to
increase power and open the meridian to invigorate blood.
Use this technique for areas with severe pressure pain and
fixed or chronic pain conditions such as Bi syndrome.
2. The second style uses two needles inserted into two different,
yet related, meridians. For example, the practitioner can insert
a needle on one meridian’s Yuan source point, while the
second needle goes on the related meridian’s Luo connecting
point. Use the Yuan source point to stimulate the meridians
and Yuan source energy. Use the Luo connecting point to
increase the relationship of external and internal meridians.
This technique taps into the Yuan source and Luo connecting
point relationship, the external and internal meridian relationship, and the Yin and Yang meridian combination.
3. In recent years, practitioners have developed a third technique of deep and shallow insertions. This technique inserts
one needle deeply while inserting the other needle next to
the first but with shallow insertion.
The cross needle technique’s functions are to harmonize
the Yin and Wei and increase circulation. Many practitioners

FIGURE 2-6 The cross needle technique uses one needle positioned ver-

tically and another needle positioned in the anterior-to-posterior direction to
form a cross on the middle of the point in order to increase the energy flow.

use this technique for chronic pain conditions such as frozen
shoulder, sciatic nerve pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and soft
tissue injury, as well as internal organ conditions.
In micro-acupuncture technique, the cross needle technique
has been adapted in many ways, especially for treating conditions with scalp acupuncture. For example, on St 8 (Tou Wei)
(Figure 2-6), the practitioner uses one needle positioned vertically and another needle positioned in the anterior-to-posterior
direction to form a cross on the middle of the point in order to
increase the energy flow.

Across Needle Technique
Across needle technique is a new development for microacupuncture. In joining the energy from two different parts of
the body, use one needle to connect two meridians. It is primarily used in scalp acupuncture and the wrist and ankle system.
For example, the practitioner can insert the needle from the anterior oblique line of the vertex-temporal to the posterior oblique
line of the vertex-temporal. In this system, needle superficially.

Qi Ci Technique
The Qi Ci technique was first recorded in the Nei Jing. Use three
needles to perform this technique. The practitioner finds the
most sensitive point on the patient’s skin and uses this spot for
the first needle, and then two other needles are inserted next to
it. The two needle tips run toward the first needle. The three
needles lie together with oblique insertions. This technique is
often used for problems of tendons (such as tendonitis), muscles, soft tissues, or Bi syndrome (Figure 2-7).
The micro-acupuncture system has adopted this technique
by using three needles in one area to increase the sensation.
This technique is commonly used in scalp acupuncture. For
example, a practitioner can work on the middle line of the
forehead and the line 1 lateral to the forehead, the middle line


of the vertex with line 2 lateral to the vertex, and the uppermiddle line of the occiput with the upper-lateral line of the
occiput. All needles are usually inserted obliquely because of the
location and tissue types.

Micro-System Techniques


the needle just under the intradermal tissues, but cover a rather
large area from the spinal nerves or 12 cutaneous regions of traditional Chinese medicine. The principle of this technique is to
choose the least amount of points, but it is critical to insert in
the correct layer of tissue (Figure 2-9).

Cutaneous Needle Technique
The cutaneous needle technique was developed from the Mao
Ci technique and was first recorded in the Nei Jing. This technique stimulates the skin superficially. For conditions where
evil Qi is invading the skin to cause numbness and tingling or
skin infections, use superficial insertions to help improve the
circulation locally. This technique requires insertion in local
areas to stimulate the skin but without stimulating muscles and
tendons underneath. This technique requires mostly perpendicular insertion superficially on the skin or just into the skin by
using a single needle or a group of needles, such as “seven star”
needles. The Mao Ci technique has been adapted to microacupuncture in auricular therapy, nose therapy, and Korean
hand acupuncture therapy. These techniques are similar to the
Mao Ci technique because they involve insertion of needles
superficially without stimulating the deep tissues.

Hegu Ci Technique
The Hegu Ci technique was first recorded in the Nei Jing. For
this technique, the practitioner can use a single needle insertion
in three directions. First, insert the needle deep into the abundant muscle area and then withdraw the needle to the superficial layer without withdrawing completely. Next, reinsert the
needle on the right and left sides so that it resembles a chicken’s
foot. Each of the directions is needed to elicit Qi by using lifting, thrusting, and rotation techniques.
This technique can also use three needles in one direction.
Insert one needle perpendicularly and use cross insertion for
the other two needles, creating a Y shape. The function of Hegu

Superficial Needle Technique
The superficial needle technique was developed from the Zhi Ci
or Fu Ci technique that was first recorded in the Nei Jing. This
technique works on the superficial layers of the skin, similar to
intradermal therapy (Figure 2-8).
The superficial needle technique also uses longer needles. It
mostly works on the tissues of the superficial fascia and involves
needling toward the diseased area. When needling, the practitioner uses one hand to pinch the skin and then uses the puncturing hand to insert the needle transversely. The needle
directions are based on the clinical conditions.
The superficial needle technique is used for superficial conditions, such as tingling, numbness, or skin conditions due to
cold invading superficial layers, superficial infections, or nerve
In micro-acupuncture systems, this technique has been
widely used on nose, scalp, wrist, and ankle acupuncture. Insert

FIGURE 2-8 The superficial needle technique was developed from the Fu

Ci technique that works on the superficial layers of the skin, similar to intradermal needle therapy.

FIGURE 2-9 In the superficial needle technique, the practitioner uses one
FIGURE 2-7 In the Qi Ci technique, the three needles lie together with

oblique insertions.

hand to pinch the skin, and then uses the puncturing hand to insert the needle
transversely. The needle directions are based on the clinical conditions.



Micro-System Techniques

Ci is to stop pain, release spasm, and open the meridians. It is
used for muscle spasms or injury.
For the micro-acupuncture system, this technique had to be
adapted for insertion on superficial areas such as the nose
instead of on abundant muscle areas. First, insert the needle
obliquely but superficially, then withdraw the needle to the
orginal point without withdrawing completely. Then use the
running technique on both sides of the nose called the “nose
three-needle technique,” which was developed from the Hegu
Ci technique. Another example is using three needles on Du 20
(Bai Hui) where one needle is inserted from back to front on
Du 20 and the other two are inserted 1.0 cun anteriorly and 0.5
cun laterally toward Du 20. The three needles will resemble the
letter Y. The usage area of the Jiao system of scalp acupuncture
also is a good example for this type of technique. Insert the needles from three different directions leading to one point, or use
three needles from one point distributed out to the sides
(Figure 2-10).

Tiao Qi Technique
The Tiao Qi technique controls and adjusts the needle sensation in a specific direction. Insert one needle at a point in an
oblique or transverse angle and then manipulate the needle to
get the sensation to move toward the diseased area. This technique opens the meridians, stops pain, and is used for a variety
of conditions.
Because the points of the micro-acupuncture system are
located in the distal parts of the body such as the hands, feet,
and head, it is important to create and increase the Qi sensation
at the diseased area. It is not required to elicit Qi when using the
wrist and ankle acupuncture system at the local needle area;
however, tip the needle toward the diseased area and use other
techniques such as cupping, moxibustion, or Tui Na on a
related zone area or on the targeted diseased area to create a Qi
response. Achieve results by using this method of adjusting and
controlling the energy flow (Figure 2-11).

Mountain Burning Technique
This is a comprehensive needle technique including fast and
slow manipulation, lifting and thrusting, using an odd number,
and close the pore tonification technique, as well as combining
it with turning, rotation, and breathing. The purpose of this
technique is to achieve feelings of warmth locally or over the
whole body. Mountain burning is used for deficiency and cold
conditions. It is used in the clinic for all types of cold Bi syndromes, cold accumulation conditions, Yang deficiency such as
the flaccid type of stroke, paralysis, Bi syndromes caused by
wind and damp, chronic diarrhea with Yang deficiency, impotence, low back pain, and abdominal pain or some external
pathogenic conditions.
When performing the mountain burning technique, have
the patient breathe by inhaling through the nose and exhaling
through the mouth. During exhalation, insert needles into the
superficial layer of skin. At this upper one-third depth of the
point, use heavy pressure and gentle lifting nine times with
tonification turning technique. Then lower the needle down to
the middle one-third depth of the point and repeat the same

FIGURE 2-10 In the Hegu Ci technique, a single needle is inserted in three

directions to form a chicken’s foot.

FIGURE 2-11 The Tiao Qi technique controls and adjusts the needle sensation in a specific direction.


FIGURE 2-12 The mountain burning technique inserts needles into the

three layers of tissues. This works as a comprehensive needle technique, as well
as in combination with fast and slow, lifting and thrusting, open and closed,
turning, rotation, and breathing of tonification techniques.

Micro-System Techniques


FIGURE 2-13 The cooling the sky technique also inserts needles into
the three layers of tissues, but the practitioner inserts the needle into the deep
layer first.

technique nine times. Lastly, lower the needle down to the
deepest one-third depth of the point and perform the same
technique nine times. This completes one degree of the mountain burning technique. If necessary, repeat the technique a few
times until the patient feels a warm sensation. Take the needle
out slowly, applying pressure with a cotton ball over the point
as the patient inhales (Figure 2-12).

Cooling The Sky Technique
This is a comprehensive needle technique including fast and
slow manipulation, lifting and thrusting, using an even
number, and leaving the pore open sedating technique, as well
as combining it with turning, rotation, and breathing. Cooling
the sky is used for excess or hot conditions. In the clinic, it is
used for excess Qi and fire, and hot internal organ conditions
such as the tense type of stroke, heat stroke, delirious speech,
seizure, fevers, constipation, and other excess heat conditions.
This technique clears heat to sedate the fire.
When performing the cooling the sky technique, have the
patient breathe by inhaling through the nose and exhaling
through the mouth. When the patient inhales, insert the needle
to the lowest one-third depth of the point. For manipulation,
use heavy lifting and gentle pressure six times, in combination
with the sedating turning technique. Then, lift the needle up to
technique six times. Lastly, lift the needle to the superficial onethird depth of the point and perform the same technique six
times. This completes one degree of the cooling the sky technique. If necessary, repeat the technique a few times. Wait until
the patient exhales and withdraw the needle quickly, shaking it
to enlarge the needle hole as the needle is removed without
applying a cotton ball to the needle hole.
In the micro-acupuncture system, the cooling the sky and
mountain burning techniques have been adapted to the scalp
acupuncture technique. Because there is not much muscle to
use for depth on the scalp, the techniques are applied by using
distance instead of depth. Use the distance between the midline

FIGURE 2-14 Three-edged needle, lancet, and the dispenser, to prick
certain points to bleed for better blood circulation.

of the scalp toward the ear. Divide this area into three sections
to perform the techniques. The cooling the sky technique is
considered a sedation technique, and the mountain burning
technique is considered a tonification technique (Figure 2-13).

The Bloodletting Technique
The bloodletting technique uses a three-edged needle, lancet, or
pricking needle and its dispenser to prick certain points to
bleed for better blood circulation.
The three-edged needle was known as “Feng Zhen,” or
“sharp-edged needle,” in ancient times. The needle has a round
handle, a triangular head, and a sharp tip. The three-edged
needle performs the functions of draining heat from the body,
dispelling blood stasis to stop pain, releasing toxins, opening
orifices, calming the Shen, reducing swelling, sedating fire,
expelling wind to stop itching, and promoting the smooth flow
of Qi and blood (Figure 2-14).
This method is used to treat blockage of the meridians, blood
stasis, excess syndromes, and heat patterns such as high fever, loss
of consciousness, sore throat, and local congestion or swelling.



Micro-System Techniques

There are four different techniques: pinching and pricking,
clumpy pricking, break pricking, and collateral pricking.
Pinching and Pricking Technique

Use the routine clean needle technique, and then use the left
thumb, index finger, and middle finger to hold the operated
area. The practitioner then applies heavy pressure to cause
slight redness and swelling. Use one hand to hold the threeedged needle and prick quickly about 0.05 to 0.1 inch deep for
bloodletting. Withdraw the needle immediately and squeeze
out a few drops of blood. Press the puncture hole with a sterilized, dry cotton ball to stop the bleeding. This technique is
mostly used at the end of the extremities, such as the hands,
feet, and ears in the micro-acupuncture system (Figure 2-15).
Clumpy Pricking Technique

Make multiple pricks around a small area of redness or swelling
rather than a particular point. Puncture the skin for bloodletting or use in combination with cupping. This technique is
mostly used for toxic swelling, Bi syndrome, or skin ulcers
(Figure 2-16).
Break Pricking Technique

This technique is used on the chest, abdomen, back, head, and
face. The point is shallow and skin or muscles are thin. Use one
hand to hold the needle and insert it into the skin to lift up and
break the skin. This is used to release infection, tumors, and
Collateral Pricking Technique

Use a rubber band to tie the upper section or lower section of
the point. Puncture slowly with the three-edge needle into the
superficial vein about 0.5 to 1.0 fen deep and release the needle
slowly for bloodletting. Release the rubber band and wait until
dark blood becomes red blood. Apply pressure to the puncture

FIGURE 2-15 Pinching and pricking technique.

technique is used on the superficial vein to release blood. It is
useful for problems of the head and the four extremities.
In the micro-system, the bloodletting technique is most
commonly used for hand acupuncture, foot acupuncture, and
ear acupuncture. The clumpy pricking technique is usually used
in the back Shu system.

Intradermal Needle Technique
The intradermal needle (or embedded needle) is a short needle
made of stainless steel wire used especially for embedding in the
skin. It can exert continuous stimulation to points with the purpose of preventing and treating disease. Most commonly used
to treat some chronic or painful diseases, this technique
requires longer needle retention time.
In the micro-system, this technique is commonly used in
ear acupuncture, wrist and ankle acupuncture, hand acupuncture, back Shu acupuncture, face acupuncture, and nose
acupuncture (Figure 2-8).
There are three types of needles:
1. Thumbtack needle: about 0.3 cm long with a head like a
thumbtack. Generally applied to ear and face areas. When
inserting thumbtack needles, first use alcohol to sterilize the
area to be embedded, and then hold the ring of the thumbtack needle with forceps. Insert the needle into the prescribed point and then fix the needle with a piece of adhesive
2. Grain-like needle: about 1.0 cm long with a head like a grain
of wheat. Apply to acupuncture points or tender points on
various parts of the body. When inserting grain-like needles,
first sterilize the area to be embedded, and then hold the
body of the grain-like needle with forceps and insert it horizontally into the point approximately 0.5 to 1.0 cm. Leave it
lying flat on the skin and then affix the needle with a piece
of adhesive tape.
3. T-Bone needle: resembles the thumbtack needle but has
adhesive plaster both above and below the ring of the needle.
The sharp tip of the needle is substituted with a dull head
and doesn’t penetrate the skin. The adhesive helps hold the
needle in place and stimulates sensation on the surface of the
skin. It also reduces the sensitivity of the skin to the adhesive

FIGURE 2-16 Clumpy pricking technique.


Cupping Technique
Cupping is a therapeutic method in which a jar is attached to
the surface of the skin in order to cause local congestion via
negative pressure. The negative pressure in each cup is achieved
via introduction of heat from an ignited material.
The functions of cupping include the promotion of Qi and
blood circulation, dispelling cold or dampness, diminishing
swelling and pain, and draining pus.
There are many types of jars designed for cupping procedures,
but the most commonly seen in clinical settings are the following
(Figure 2-17):
Bamboo Jar

This is a cylindrical section of bamboo that is 3 to 5 cm in
diameter and 6 to 8 cm or 6 to 10 cm in length. Bamboo jars are
readily available in many places because they are often relatively
cheap and easy to make. Bamboo cups are lightweight and
difficult to damage but are subject to drying out and losing the
integrity of their vacuum over time.

Micro-System Techniques


Pottery Cup

Pottery cups are jars of varying sizes made of clay. They have
smooth rims, large bellies, and small openings at their bases,
similar to the construction of a drum. This type of cup is
favored because it is able to produce very powerful suction;
however, clay jars are easily subject to damage.
Glass Cup

These jars are made of heavy glass and are often shaped
similarly to pottery jars. They are usually available in three
main sizes (small, medium, and large). One may substitute
bottles with large openings for glass jars, so long as the glass is
heavy enough and the rims are smooth. The transparency of
glass jars allows the practitioner to observe local congestion
resulting from the cupping procedure, thus enabling the
practitioner to easily control the duration of the cupping.
A disadvantage of glass jars is that they are easily subject to
Rubber Cup

These jars are made of rubber and are similar in shape
to pottery jars. This type of jar is very easy to use virtually
anywhere on the body, even on bony surfaces like joints.
Like their air-draining counterparts, rubber cups are very
durable and require no ignition or combustion to induce a
Air-Draining Cup

These smooth-edged jars are made of modern polymers and
feature a valve system for air evacuation. Suction is created via
a vacuum pump attached to the valve on the cup. These cups
have no need for ignition- or combustion-induced vacuum
pressure and are more durable than their bamboo, pottery, or
glass counterparts (Figure 2-18).
There are many different cupping techniques for performance:
Fire Twirling Method

A long piece of paper or a cotton-wool ball is soaked with alcohol, held securely by forceps, ignited, and allowed to burn. To
induce vacuum pressure, the burning cotton-wool ball is then
circled within the cup one to three times (taking care not to
heat up or burn the rim), and then removed. The cup is then
very quickly placed on the desired area of the patient before the
vacuum is negated. Since there is no fire left inside the cup
when it is applied to the patient, this method is regarded as safe
and is commonly used in the clinical setting.
Fire Throwing Method

FIGURE 2-17 There are many types of jars designed for cupping

procedures; the most commonly seen in clinical settings are shown here.

Throw a piece of ignited paper into the cup and then rapidly
place the mouth of the cup firmly against the selected area of
the patient’s skin. This method is often used for the sides of
the body, or anywhere else that the cup needs to be applied
horizontally. This method is known to produce the strongest



Micro-System Techniques

push the cup back and forth, up and down until the skin
becomes red, congested, or even exhibits some blood stasis.
This method is suitable for treating numbness, pain, or Bi syndromes involving wind and damp. Running cupping is also very
effective for treating large areas of the body where the muscles
are thick, such as the back, thighs, buttocks, and lumbar region.
Quickly Replaced Cupping

Put the cup on the skin then remove it at once. Repeat this procedure until the skin turns red, becomes congested, or forms
visible blood stasis (a bruise). Quickly replaced cupping is often
used to treat numbness of the skin, as well as pain. This method
is also useful in treating Wei syndrome.
Bloodletting Cupping

The area to be cupped must be sterilized before this procedure.
Afterward, prick a small vein with a three-edged needle or tap
the skin with a seven-star needle and apply the cup to promote
bloodletting. This method is useful for treating erysipelas,
sprain, and mastitis.
Water Cupping
FIGURE 2-18 Air-draining cups have no need for ignition.

Alcohol Method

Apply 1 to 3 drops of 95% alcohol (not so much that the skin is
in danger of catching on fire) into the cup and allow it to spread
along the cup’s internal surface. Ignite the alcohol inside the cup
and quickly place the cup on the selected area of the patient.
Cotton-Wool Sticking Method

Place a piece of a cotton-wool soaked with alcohol into the
lower one-third of the internal surface of the jar, ignite the
cotton, and then rapidly put the cup onto the selected area.

Put decocted herbal medicine into the cup, induce a vacuum,
and rapidly apply the cup to the selected site with the mouth of
the jar facing upward. Have the patient turn over to let the
herbal medicine touch the skin while the vacuum is intact. This
method is useful for treating many skin problems.
Cupping with Needling

This is also known as “cupping on the needle.” Place a cup over
a needle already inserted into the desired point. Retain the cup
for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the skin becomes congested or visible blood stasis forms. This method is excellent when the therapeutics of cupping and needling are most appropriate in
Suction Bottle (Air-Draining Cupping)

Fire Burning in the Lid Method

Use a rubber lid with a diameter that is smaller than the cup to
be used. Place an alcohol-soaked cotton ball on the lid. Place
this small lid over the desired site, ignite, and ra