Tizhen is one of the "Nine Needles" in ancient times, which is a method of treating diseases by pressing the surface of the skin along the meridian points. It is also called "Tui Zhen" because it mainly uses pushing and pressing. The "Ling Shu • Nine Needles Twelve Origins" states: "When pressing the pulse, do not sink, so as not to obstruct the qi." This means that Tizhen can promote the flow of qi and blood in the meridians to treat diseases.
[Operational Method]
1. Needle
Tizhen is about 3-4 inches long, preferably made of bone or wood, but can also be made of metal. The needle tip is round and blunt, so as not to penetrate the skin.
2. Operation
The needling technique involves pressing the Tizhen on the surface of the meridians and acupoints, using the sensation of qi as a guide. It can also be instructed for self-use by patients. There are two methods: tonifying and reducing.
(1) Tonifying method: Gently press the needle on the meridian or acupoint, wait for local skin to become red or symptoms to alleviate, slowly withdraw the needle, and then gently rub the area after removing the needle.
(2) Reducing method: Apply heavy pressure with the needle on the meridian or acupoint, with quick movements. When the patient feels pain or a spreading sensation of soreness and swelling, quickly withdraw the needle.
2. Fire Tizhen technique involves heating the needle tip with fire, burning it to three different temperatures: bright white, translucent, and slightly red. The needle can be quickly inserted or slowly pressed and heated, burning or cauterizing the affected tissues, and can also have an immediate hemostatic effect.
3. Acupoint selection follows the general principle of acupuncture point selection, "It is better to miss the acupoint than to miss the meridian."
[Indications]
1. Stomach pain, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, indigestion
Treat with Tizhen. For stomach pain, use Neiguan, Zhongwan, and Liangqiu acupoints; for vomiting, use Neiguan and Zusanli; for abdominal pain and diarrhea, use Qihai, Zusanli, and Shangjuxu; for indigestion, use Shangwan and Zunneiting.
2. Telangiectasia, warts, moles, spots, fistulas, anal fissures
Treat with Fire Tizhen. Apply it to the affected areas.
[Precautions]
Do not use this method on infected areas.
