Warm needle acupuncture is a method of moxibustion that involves inserting a fine needle into an acupuncture point and then applying moxibustion with a moxa stick attached to the needle handle. It combines the techniques of needle insertion and moxibustion. The book "The Collection of Acupuncture and Moxibustion" states: "Wang Jiezhai introduced a method called warm needle, which is a technique from the Chu region. The method involves inserting a needle into an acupuncture point, attaching a round cake made of white atractylodes rhizome to the needle, and then steaming it with moxa. This method is often used to achieve therapeutic effects."
During the procedure, after the needle has been inserted and the Qi has been obtained, the needle is left in place at the appropriate depth. A moxa stick, approximately 1.5-2cm long and positioned 2-3cm away from the skin, is attached to the needle handle. The moxa stick is ignited and allowed to burn until it is completely consumed. The ashes are then removed, and the needle is taken out after a brief pause. If the moxa fire causes the skin to become hot, a piece of paper can be placed between the acupuncture point and the moxa stick to reduce the heat and prevent the moxa from falling and burning the skin. This method is a simple and practical combination of acupuncture and moxibustion. The heat generated by the burning moxa can be transmitted through the needle into the body, allowing the combined effects of needle insertion and moxibustion to achieve the desired therapeutic outcome.
