Acupuncture and Meridian Circuit Systems

Methods of acupuncture that are based on the networks between the meridians are gaining in popularity, and in recent months a form of meridian diagnosis and pattern identification has emerged in the Oriental medical community.

In Chinese medicine one of the primary aspects of diagnosis is to recognize a pattern of disharmony. While most acupuncturist are using a zang-fu or 5-element approach to pattern identification, a method termed “Meridian Circuit Systems” is becoming known for its efficiency in identifying even complex patterns.

As its starting point Meridian Circuit Systems asks the patient about their top three health concerns, and then identifies symptoms according to what meridians are affected. After this has been done meridian pairs are identified according to the 3-yin and 3-yang channels, the internal-external meridians, or pairs as determined by the horary cycle.

For instance, the tai yang meridians are associated with the small intestine and urinary bladder, and the tai yang channels have a strong association with the spine, back, and nervous system. According to Meridian Circuit Systems, the tai yang may also be paired with the tai yin, the shao yin, and the liver and lung. While the pairing of the tai yang with the shao yin correlates with spinal patterns due to kidney deficiency, the pairing of the tai yang with the tai yin explains how other organs may also affect the spine.

While spinal conditions due to an underlying kidney pattern can be described as a tai yang – shao yin pattern, spinal and back symptoms that occur with qi deficiency, respiratory conditions, and/or digestive imbalance can be regarded as a tai yang – tai yin pattern. For back, shoulder, or spinal pain with underlying liver patterns and symptoms the tai yang – liver/lung circuit is most useful.

In summary, back and spinal symptoms that affect the tai yang may be regarded as a tai yang – tai yin pattern, a tai yang – shao yin syndrome, or a tai yang – liver/lung condition. The pattern identified is dependent on the patients top three concerns, other relevant symptoms, and the tongue and pulse readings.

For complete information on using a meridian based approach to pattern identification refer to the book and online course: Meridian Circuit Systems: A Channel Based Approach to Pattern Identification.

The book and online acupuncture course are available through the authors website at www.ihsociety.com/acupuncture.html

The book is also available through Redwing Books and Amazon.

Contact Information

James Spears

Director

Integrative Healing Society

Contact via E-mail