needling method for chinese acupuncture

Needling methods:

            The needle usually should be held with the right hand known as the puncturing hand. The left hand known as the pressing hand, pushes firmly against the area close to the acupoint or presses the needle body from both sides to assist the right hand. The needle should be inserted co-ordinately with the help of both hands.

            The first method is nailing insertion. Press beside the acupoint with the nail of the thumb or the index finger of the left hand, hold the needle with the right hand and keep the needle tip closely against the nail, and then insert the needle into the acupoint. This method is suitable for puncturing with short needles.

            The second method is holding insertion. Hold the needle tip with sterilized dry cotton balls held by the thumb and the index finger of the left hand, keep the needle tip on the skin surface of the acupoint. Then insert the needle into the skin with both hands. This method suitable for puncturing with long needles.

            The third method is relaxing insertion. Stretch the skin with the acupoint is located with the thumb and the index finger of the left hand, hold the needle with the right hand and then insert it into the area between the two fingers. This method is suitable for puncturing the acupoint located on the regions with loose skin.

            The fourth method is lifting and pinching insertion. Pinch the skin up around the acupoint with the thumb and index finger of the left hand, insert the needle into the acupoint with the right hand. This method is suitable for puncturing the acupoint where the muscle are thin.

            The methods of insertion can make the insertion smooth and alleviate pain during acupuncture. Techniques are carefully chosen based on the condition of the patient and the location of the acupoints.