Acupuncture loci: a proposal for their classification according to their relationship to known neural structures

Abstract

Much confusion and frustration has been caused by the inability of workers in acupuncture to demonstrate the exact nature of acupuncture loci or to identify them in neuroanatomic terms. This study reviews 70 selected, commonly-used acupuncture loci. Loci were determined by their traditional descriptions and checked with a neurometer and calibration-stable stimulator. It was found that acupuncture loci may be classified into at least three types: Type I correspond to a known anatomical entity-the motor point of a muscle; Type II to the focal meeting of superficial nerves in the sagittal plane; and Type III lie over superficial nerves or plexuses. As a first step toward acceptance of acupuncture by the medical profession, it is suggested that a new system of acupuncture locus nomenclature be introduced, relating them to known neural structures. Perhaps an international committee of interested workers should be struck.