The Mechanics of Acupuncture

By Dr. Zhu Weimin

Acupuncture is a traditional treatment method in Chinese medicine, and its mechanism is based on the theoretical foundations of Chinese medicine, including meridian theory, qi (energy) and blood theory, as well as the balance of yin and yang. However, the new 3C acupuncture theory, based on the ancient 8,000-year-old Chinese River Chart and modern anatomy knowledge, has greatly simplified procedures while significantly improving the speed and effectiveness of pain relief. Although the exact mechanism of acupuncture is still a subject of debate, there are numerous undeniable clinical cases. Here are some common explanations and theories regarding acupuncture technique:

1. Meridian Theory: According to Chinese medicine, the human body is traversed by a network of energy channels called meridians. This theory posits that disease results from obstructions or disruptions in the flow of qi (energy) and blood along these meridians. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, energy can be rebalanced, thus promoting the body's natural self-healing ability. The underlying idea is that illness arises from energy blockages, and acupuncture dissipates them by stimulating specific acupuncture points.

2. Influence on the Nervous System: Acupuncture can impact the activity of the nervous system by stimulating acupuncture points, triggering the release of neurotransmitters and hormones. This can affect pain perception, the immune system, and the functioning of the endocrine system. These effects can help alleviate pain, improve emotional well-being, and regulate the body's physiological functions.

3. Stimulation of Acupuncture Points: During acupuncture sessions, the stimulation of acupuncture points can induce local biochemical and physiological responses, such as increased local blood flow, improved oxygen supply to tissues, and reduced inflammation. These biological responses contribute to relieving local pain and promoting the repair of damaged tissues.

4. The Overall Effects of Acupuncture:

   Acupuncture is believed to be capable of adjusting the balance of yin and yang within the body, thereby promoting overall health and balance. Chinese medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body and the correlation between different body systems.

5. According to the 3C acupuncture theory, there exists a "best doctor" within the body (the body's self-repair system). When this "doctor" is asleep, drowsy, or fatigued, it signifies that the person is unwell. By using the 3C method to practice acupuncture, this "doctor" can be awakened, instructing it to heal the body. As a result, treatment effects are rapid. For pain, for example, a few seconds of massage or a few seconds of acupuncture are sufficient to achieve results. Furthermore, the treatment is comprehensive. Even after the needle is removed, the treatment continues, and many patients recover within hours or days after needle removal.

   A characteristic of this acupuncture method is that it does not require deep needle penetration, making it very safe. The needles only penetrate the skin, yet they can effectively treat deep-seated illnesses, such as visceral or skeletal conditions. This is because acupuncture merely awakens the body's "internal doctor" without requiring deep needle insertion. It may seem miraculous.

   It is important to note that, although acupuncture has shown significant results in treating certain conditions, its mechanism remains unclear and is still a subject of controversy in Western medicine. Additionally, the effectiveness of acupuncture may vary based on individual differences. Therefore, when considering acupuncture treatment, it is advisable to consult with an experienced Chinese medicine practitioner or a physician to determine the most appropriate treatment method.

   Here is the case of a patient treated at the TMed clinic in Geneva:

   Mr. V, a 49-year-old individual with a high-stress job, had been experiencing abdominal pain for seven years, which worsened at night. He had sought treatment from various healthcare professionals in Switzerland, including Western doctors, Chinese medicine practitioners, and acupuncturists, all without success. Even temporary relief was elusive. Additionally, he had undergone numerous medical examinations at the hospital, resulting in a diagnosis of intestinal pain. Recently, the presence of a cystic mass in his left kidney was discovered. No other abnormalities were detected. Fifteen days ago, he underwent surgery to remove the renal cyst in Geneva. However, the abdominal pain persisted after the operation, and it had no effect on his condition. His pain intensified during working hours.

   Clinical Examination:

   Mr. V had a flat abdominal wall, with two one-centimeter-long surgical incisions that had not yet been removed, indicating an endoscopic procedure. He had a 5x6 cm subcutaneous hematoma around the navel. He exhibited moderate tenderness to pressure in the stomach region and on both sides of the lower abdomen.

   Treatment:

   He was treated with the 3C acupuncture method, using three one-inch-long needles with shallow punctures. After the needles were inserted, the pain immediately decreased, and after 5 minutes, it significantly decreased. After 20 minutes, the pain in the stomach and lower abdomen completely disappeared. The patient was very pleased with these results. He was advised to remain vigilant and to make an appointment in case of pain recurrence. He was also advised to stop consuming cold foods, follow an appropriate diet, and practice meditation to manage his stress. This case illustrates how shallow acupuncture can effectively treat deep internal conditions with rapid results.

   The clinical case described demonstrates how an acupuncturist treated a patient suffering from persistent abdominal pain following a recent kidney surgery, using the 3C acupuncture method to quickly alleviate the pain.

   October 2023.

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