This introduction to the key principles of needling techniques for acupuncturists has been produced with the needs of the beginning student in mind, and serves as a core learning tool for beginners, and handy reference for later use. Demonstrating all the essential knowledge required, the text covers everything from the basics of good practice in care of filiform needles, through methods of insertion, to manipulation and the arrival of Qi. Reinforcing and reducing methods of acupuncture are explained and demonstrated, as are four essential needling manipulations of Dragon-Tiger-Tortoise-Phoenix, and the book concludes with practical chapters on the retention and withdrawal of needles, and the management and prevention of accidents. Explanations are clear and illustrated with diagrams, and fully demonstrated in action on the accompanying DVD. For ease of use, all key manipulations and principles are indexed on the DVD for quick reference and easy repetition. This practical book will be an invaluable learning and reference aid to all students of acupuncture and new practitioners.

Table of Contents

1. Structure, Specification, Check and Keep of the Filiform Needle.; 2. Needling Practices.; 3. Preparations.; 4. Insertions.; 5. Direction, Angle and Depth of Insertion.; 6. Manipulations and Arrival of Qi.; 7. Reinforcing and Reducing Methods of Acupuncture.; 8. Four Comprehensive Needling Manipulations Called Dragon-Tiger-Tortoise-Phoenix.; 9. Retention and Withdrawal of Needles.; 10. Management and Prevention of Accidents.; 11. Precautions.

Author Biography

Professor Chang Xiaorong is a doctorate advisor and leading teacher in the Hunan higher education system. She is the Director of the National TCM Administration's Meridian-Organ Relationship Key Research Unit, as well as the director and academic leader of the Hunan Provincial Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina Key Discipline, director of the Hunan Acupuncture Provincial High Quality Courses, vice-president of the Hunan Acupuncture Association and research topic correspondent reviewer for the National Natural Sciences Foundation. She has been involved with acupuncture for thirty years and has taught the bachelors degree courses 'Acupuncture', 'Meridians and Acupoints', and 'Needling and Moxibustion', as well as the postgraduate courses 'The Scientific Basis of Acupuncture' and 'The Clinical Research Advancement of Acupuncture'. Professor Chang's primary research focus areas are 'Acupuncture Meridian and Collateral Research-Meridian and Organ Relationship Rules and Mechanism Research' and 'Clinical and Experimental Research on Moxibustion Methods'.