12/09/2025
In classical Chinese acupuncture, the choice of points is never random – it is guided by centuries of observation, theory, and clinical experience. Two groups of points that often attract attention are the jing-well points and the use of distal points.
Jing-well points, located at the tips of the fingers and toes, are considered the places where qi first emerges or is most dynamic. Classical texts describe them as being especially effective at clearing heat, restoring consciousness, and treating acute or sudden conditions. They are also closely linked with the transformation of mental and emotional states, making them particularly useful in conditions where there is agitation of the mind or a sense of being “blocked” at the most fundamental level of the channel system.
Distal points, those located away from the site of the main complaint, are chosen because of the channel system’s interconnectedness. In classical practice, pain or dysfunction in one part of the body can often be addressed by stimulating points along the same channel elsewhere. For example, a headache might be treated with points on the hands or feet that lie on the affected meridian. This reflects the principle that qi circulates throughout the whole channel, so influence at one end can resonate throughout its pathway.
Together, jing-well points and distal points embody the holistic nature of acupuncture. Rather than focusing only on the site of symptoms, treatment seeks to regulate the body’s overall balance of qi, dispersing excess, moving stagnation, and supporting harmony between interior and exterior. Their continued use in modern clinics shows just how enduring and effective these classical strategies remain.
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