- Classical— This style is based on the ancient Chinese Classics. These points serve as the foundation for TCM acupuncture. Classical acupuncture is a name given to the practice of acupuncture before the formation of the People’s Republic of China, though there is no single body of Classical acupuncture. This general category then stands in distinction to regional and family traditions that are not based in textual scholarship.
- TCM— This style is the foundation upon which all Chinese and non-Chinese practitioners in the North America obtain licensure. TCM takes the tradition of textual scholarship that typifies Classical acupuncture and endeavors to formulate a single body of knowledge, minimizing contradictions and highlighting mechanistic theories that are borrowed directly from herbalism. Generally speaking, TCM acupuncture uses thicker needles and emphasizes particular manipulation techniques for purposes of obtaining the qi-sensation, what is commonly referred to as “de-qi” or mistakenly as “da-qi”, 得气.
- Japanese— This style of acupuncture is primarily based on the Classic of the Nan-jing, a Han Dynasty (206 bce – 220 ce) text which clearly delineates the theory of Five Elements, including treatment axioms. Japanese acupuncture is typically associated with the use of very thin needles and superficial insertion, along with highly developed diagnosis based on palpation.
- Master Tung— An ever popular form of acupuncture that is used particularly for treating pain. Although there is some over lapping between TCM and Classical, it is based purely on Master Tung’s reckoning, which is based upon unique formulations of Five Elements and astronomical correspondences on the body.
- Yi-jing— This style is based in the foundational classic of all Chinese philosophy and science, the Classic of Changes. The extrapolations and applications therefrom are the work of Dr. Chen Zhao.
- Abdominal— This style is a specialized application of the Yi-jing which may be used as a compliment to other acupuncture styles.
- Tan/Balance— This style draws upon Yi-jing acupuncture and palpation to primarily treat pain distal to the site of pain. This style, though related to a passage in the Nei-jing, stands in distinction to TCM acupuncture through its emphasis on the relationship between channels, as opposed to the action of particular points.
- Scalp— This style of acupuncture is particularly cerebro-vascular incidents like stroke, Parkinson’s, and RSD. There are several scalp acupuncture systems, most all based on modern understanding of brain physiology. Stimulation methods are strong and vigorous but for a short duration.
- Pulse balancing— This style focuses on changing the pulse to affect an overall change in the health of the patient. It may be used in conjunction with other treatment styles and may already be an inclusive part of many other acupuncture styles.
- Five Element— This is the name given a style that is generally associated with the work of Dr. Leon Hammer. It places a considerable amount of emphasis on psycho-emotional aspects of health.
For application of the acupuncture style that suits your condition, contact the clinic, 323.936.5152.