Learning Objectives
- Clearly explain the definition of an acupoint.
- Understand the significance of acupoints in the human body.
Lecture Content
1. What are Acupoints (經穴)?
- Definition: Acupoints are specific locations on the body’s surface where the Qi (氣) of the Zang-fu (臟腑) meridians (經絡) flows. They are also known as Shu-points (穴).
- Modern Meaning: In modern practice, acupoints are understood as sensitive points on the body’s surface that reflect the body’s physiological and pathological changes, reactive points for diagnosis, and stimulation points for acupuncture and moxibustion therapy.
Chapter 2. Classification of Acupoints
Learning Objectives
- Explain the two main classifications of acupoints.
- Distinguish the characteristics of regular points and extraordinary points.
Lecture Content
1. Regular Acupoints (正穴)
- Definition: These are acupoints belonging to the twelve meridians (十二經脈), the Governor Vessel (督脈), and the Conception Vessel (任脈). When people refer to acupoints in general, they often mean these regular points.
2. Extraordinary Acupoints (奇穴)
- Definition: These are acupoints with specific names and locations that belong to a system different from the regular points.
Chapter 3. Directional Terminology for Acupoint Location
Learning Objectives
- Understand the anatomical terms used to describe direction on the human body.
- Familiarize yourself with the main directional terms used to locate acupoints.
Lecture Content
To accurately identify the location of acupoints, it’s essential to know the terms used to describe direction on the human body.
- Medial and Lateral: Medial refers to the side closer to the body’s midline, while lateral refers to the side further away.
- Superior and Inferior: Superior refers to the direction toward the head, while inferior refers to the direction toward the feet.
- Anterior and Posterior: Anterior refers to the front surface of the body (the belly side), while posterior refers to the back surface (the back side).
- Proximal and Distal: Proximal refers to the part closer to the trunk of the body, while distal refers to the part further away from the trunk.
Chapter 4. Review and Advanced Study
Discussion Topics
- Based on the three meanings of acupoints—’sensitive point,’ ‘reactive point,’ and ‘stimulation point’—discuss how acupoints can be used in both diagnosis and treatment.
- Why is the classification of regular and extraordinary points necessary? What differences might their characteristics bring to clinical practice?
Online Quiz
- In the definition of an acupoint, what does ‘Qi (氣)’ mean when it is said to flow on the body’s surface?
- What are the acupoints belonging to the twelve meridians, the Governor Vessel, and the Conception Vessel called?
- Provide an example of how to use the terms ‘proximal’ and ‘distal’ to describe the location of an acupoint on the elbow.