METHODS OF NEEDLE INSERTION

The needle should be held with the right hand , while the left hand pushes firmly against the area close to the point.According to the location of the acupuncture point and the size of the needle , there are various methods of insertion.


The above images show four different methods of insertion :


  • Image 1 : The needle insertion is done with the help of the right thumb and the index of the left hand.
  • Image 2 : Left thumbnail assisted insertion.
  • Image 3 : The skin around the acupuncture point is pinched up with the left hand while the needle is held with the right hand.
  • Image 4 : The skin around the acupuncture point is stretched with the thumb and the index finger of the left hand while the needle is held with the right hand.

    The first method is suitable for puncturing with long needles (e.g puncturing the GB30 and UB54 points), the second method for puncturing with short needles (e.g puncturing the LI4 and P6 points), the third method for puncturing points of the thin tissue (such as those located on the head and face e.g UB2 , Du20 , Yintang) and the fourth method for puncturing points where the skin is loose and flabby (such as those located on the abdomen e.g S25 , Ren4).