Atlas of Acupuncture

8 Point Categories and Point Selection

Yin–Yang balance for unpaired channels

Examples:

8.3.4 Combining Points from Above

and Below

SP-4

ST-40

LU-7

LU-9

L.I.-4

a

b

cd

LU-7

L.I.-15

L.I.-11

L.I.-4

ST-36
P-6 Harmonises the Middle Burner and descends

counterflow Qi

L.I.-4
LIV-3 Most important combination for regulating the

Qi flow in the whole body

L.I.-4




ST-44

● A balance between theupper and lower half of the body is

achieved by selecting points that are evenly distributed. For

headaches, therefore, L.I.-4on the upper extremity is com-

bined with ST-44on the lower extremity.

● Combining points above with points below promotes the

smooth flow of Qi. For example: combining the opening

point and coupled point of an extraordinary vessel (➞8.1.8).

When points from above and below should not be

combined

● for acute disorders of the joints and the back – here only dis-

tal points should be needled with the reducing method.

● if there is a pre-existing energetic disharmony between above

and below. For example: for Heat sensations of the head (for

example due to Kidney Yin deficiency with Empty Fire)

needle KID-1in order to cause the Qi to descend. On the

other hand, for a uterine prolapse use moxibustion on Du-20

in order to raise the Qi.

8.3.5 Left–Right Combination

Often the balance between the right and left half of the body can

be restored through bilateral needling of the relevant points. This

will increase the therapeutic effect as opposed to unilateral

needling.

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