Chapter 7.6: It is important to palpate the pain area and the abdomen. Positive reaction points on back-Shu points are a very useful method of diagnosis.
Palpating Pain Areas
If there is extreme pain on palpation, this indicates an excess of either Yin or Yang. If pressure is actually comforting, this shows a deficiency.
Abdominal Palpation
Important if you intend to needle this region. Look for: enlarged Liver and Spleen, cysts, tumours, abdominal rigidity (peritonitis), faecal matter in intestines, superficial and strongly pulsating aortic artery. Extreme care must be taken to avoid these.
Back-Shu Point Palpation
Palpating back-Shu points is a very useful diagnostic method. Positive reaction points (tenderness, cystic nodules, muscle tension) show which organs are chronically diseased. By needling these points, the nodules or tension area becomes smaller and the organ improves.
Back-Shu Points Quick Reference
The Mu-Front (Alarm) Points
Mu-front points on the anterior surface also manifest pain when the organ is dysfunctional. When needled, they alleviate the pain and treat the dysfunction. They also tonify the cooling and calming Yin qualities of the organ.
Palpation Guide
Guide to palpation findings and their significance.
Palpation regions and what to assess:
Which alarm point was tender when you pressed it? What organ did that point to, and what does that mean for your health?