What Is Distal Acupuncture

Distal acupuncture as is a style with in the overall approach to acupuncture that inserts needles into points that are distant from the site of the problem or pain. Usually these points are in the limbs i.e.hands, feet, arms or legs, points can also be selected in the head and ears (known as Auricular acupuncture).  Local acupuncture therefore inserts needles at the site of the pain or issue.

How It Works

Distal acupuncture relies on the use of meridians that trave lspecific pathways throughout the entire body linking organs or system to other areas of the body.  By using a point on a specific meridian the acupuncturist is able to influence Qi and blood in an organ or another part of the body.  

Why Use Distal Points?

1. Accessibility: Distal points are often easier to reach, especially if the affected area is sensitive, injured, or bandaged.
2. Systemic Effect: They can address the root cause of a problem by balancing the body’s energy, not just the symptoms locally.
3. Safety: Needling away from a painful or inflamed area avoids aggravating it.
4. Efficiency: Practitioners may find that distal points can produce faster or broader results in some cases.
5. Clothing: There is usually no need for the patient to remove any clothing and can remain comfortable.

While TCM explains distal acupuncture through the flow of qi and blood  around the body via meridians, some modern research suggests it might work via the nervous system. Stimulating distal points could trigger neurological responses, like the release of endorphins ormodulation of pain signals, through pathways like the spinal cord o rbrain.

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