Traditional Chinese Diagnosis

A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctor assesses a person's constitution, syndromes, disease, and state of health by collecting and analyzing clinical information gathered from an array of diagnostic methods. Following are descriptions of a few diagnostic methods that we use in our clinic---But First! 

 

Acupuncture History & How it Works

Acupuncture points are the end product of millions of detailed observations. Through empirical experience, the use of specific points on the skin were shown to be of value in particular diseases. As this system grew each point was given a name and Chinese character, depending on its therapeutic properties.

The first clear reference to the points and channels is in the Nei Ching Su Wen which defines the main channels and acupuncture points. The Nei Ching Su Wen also makes the observation, “in pain, puncture the tender spot”. The use of painful points probably represents the original method by which many of the acupuncture points were discovered.

Modern studies have confirmed that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and opiate-like compounds that reduce and stop pain.  Micro-traumas caused by needling dissipate fibrous tissue and initiate delivery of platelet-derived growth factor, helping to restore circulation and repair damaged tissue.

               Acupuncture Points

Acupuncture points were ultimately grouped into a system of channels, which conduct the movement of vital energy through the body. Much like blood vessels, this intricate network of meridians flows through the body just as streams and rivers ebb and flow across the surface of the earth. 

                    Meridians 

Every organ system has a  set of meridians that correspond to a specific internal organ and organ system. The acupuncture points on a channel direct the flow of vital energy through the channel, influencing both disease and healthful processes in the body.

             The Twelve Meridians 

 

            

 

Pulse Diagnosis 

There are many methods of pulse diagnosis. In Traditional Chinese Medicine there are  six positions that all have a particular organ, meridian and elemental association.

   Six Positions Pulse Positions

             The Three Depths

Each position also has three depths. The most superficial relates to the chi, exterior and upper part of the body, the second level is associated with the blood and middle of the body, and the the third depth is associated with the organs, interior and lower body regions.

                Tongue Diagnosis

The tongue will show the depth and nature of an imbalance, and is also useful as a measurement tool for gauging the progression of a disorder.

Many attributes come into play: Color,  shape, coat, and movement. All of which gives  useful information about specific organs, digestive function, nature of a disease and much more. Each area of the tongue also relates to a specific area of the body.

Tongue Coatings and Clinical Indications

The tongue coat is a good indicator of the state of the Stomach and Spleen. It also shows the strength, depth and temperature of pathogenic factors.

A normal tongue coat is thinnest at the edges, thicker in the center and thickest at the root. The coating should be thin white, and slightly moist.