Acupuncture and Related Fields

Vocabulary flashcards covering the principles, diagnostic methods, and related practices of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Acupuncture

A complementary medicine originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in which the flow of life energy is restored through the insertion and stimulation of thin needles beneath the skin.

Chi / Qi

A life energy that regulates bodily functions; interruptions to its flow are believed to lead to disease.

Meridians

Pathways connected to major parts of the anatomy along which acupoints run.

Acupoints

Sites along meridians stimulated to restore energy flow, located where nerves enter muscles, where muscles meet bone, or at the midpoints of muscles.

Inspection (TCM Diagnosis)

A diagnostic method that involves looking at the face and tongue for indicators such as swelling, colour, size, and coatings.

Auscultation and Olfaction (TCM Diagnosis)

A diagnostic method consisting of listening for bodily sounds (such as coughs or wheezes) and smelling body odor.

Inquiry (TCM Diagnosis)

A diagnostic method involving questioning the patient about health categories including fever/chills, pain, appetite/thirst/taste, perspiration, defecation/urination, sleep, and menstruation/vaginal discharge.

Palpation (TCM Diagnosis)

A diagnostic method centered on feeling the pulse as well as areas of tenderness and pain.

Acupressure

A practice related to acupuncture that involves massaging acupoints rather than inserting needles.

Cupping

A practice related to acupuncture that applies suction directly to acupoints.

Moxibustion

A therapeutic practice that involves the burning of medicinal mugwort to apply heat to the body.

Reflexology

A healing modality based on the concept that healing points are concentrated on the hands, feet, and ears.