[WU Han-qing's theory and clinical application of "three regions, nine needles and twelve methods"]

The paper introduces the theory and the clinical application of "three regions, nine needles and twelve methods" summarized by professor WU Han-qing. On the basis of traditional nine needles and in association with taiji longguan needling technique handed down from family generations, WU Han-qing innovated "three regions, nine needles and twelve methods". According to the treating location and anatomical structure, the needling techniques are classified in terms of three regions, i.e. the needling technique of cutaneous region, that of sinew region and that of periosteum region. Nine kinds of needle devices are developed, including two categories, i.e. miniature sinew-bone needle and grand sinew-bone needle. Based on the three-region needling techniques, 12 acupuncture methods are summarized for different areas and layers of diseases. This acupuncture technique is applicable for the treatment of chronic pain such as injury of sinews, pain in the neck, shoulder, lumbar region and leg and sequela of apoplexy.