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[Early morphological concepts of acupoint].
1The Second Clinic Medical School, Nanjing University of CM, Nanjing 201046, Jiangsu Province, China. njrb@163.com
Zhongguo Zhen Jiu = Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion
|January 20, 2012
Summary
Acupoints, as described in the Internal Classic, possess distinct morphological features like sunk surfaces and tenderness. Identifying these anatomical landmarks aids in accurate clinical acupoint location.
Area of Science:
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Anatomy
- Acupuncture Research
Context:
- The concept of acupoints originates from ancient Chinese medical texts like the Internal Classic.
- Understanding the anatomical basis of acupoints is crucial for effective acupuncture practice.
- Historical methods of acupoint location have evolved over time.
Purpose:
- To investigate the morphological characteristics of acupoints as described in the Internal Classic.
- To establish a connection between the original meaning of acupoints and their physical features.
- To provide an evidence-based approach for acupoint location in clinical settings.
Summary:
- The Internal Classic describes acupoints as having specific morphological features such as sunk surfaces, joint caves, muscle gaps, collaterals, pulses, blocked tendons, and surface tenderness.
- These anatomical characteristics align with the original conceptualization of acupoints.
- Locating acupoints based on these morphological features offers a strong foundation for clinical application.
Impact:
- This research supports the clinical practice of acupuncture by providing a reliable method for acupoint identification.
- It highlights how later methods, relying on proportional measurements, have diverged from the original anatomical understanding of acupoints.
- Reinforces the importance of anatomical landmarks in acupoint location for improved therapeutic outcomes.
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