A Comparison Between TCM and Dr. Tan's Balance Method PDF

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
and
Dr. Richard Tans Balance Method
A comparison of theory and clinical application
by
Yan Lu, LAc
An OCOM Doctoral Program Capstone Project 2007

This thesis is dedicated to my loving wife Qiong Li without whose love and
understanding this would not have been possible. Her love and support and delicious
cooking are invaluable.
I would also like to thank the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine for the outstanding
opportunity to continue my knowledge and deeper understanding of Chinese medicine.
Particular thanks go to Eric Stephens, DAOM, L.Ac. for mentoring me during this
project. Special recognition also goes to Beth Burch, ND, ZhaoXue Lu, PhD, L.Ac. for
their help and support. Thanks to Zina Hurley, L.Ac. for helping me to understand the
Balance method. Thanks to all others named and unnamed without whose help this would
not have happened.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
and
Dr. Richard Tans Balance Method
A comparison of theory and clinical application
by
Yan Lu, LAc
An OCOM Doctoral Program Capstone Project 2007
Introduction
This project will seek to compare and contrast traditional acupuncture and Tans
acupuncture approaches to clinical acupuncture practice by using literature review.
As traditional acupuncture becomes more popular and more widely accepted in the
West, there arise many styles of clinical acupuncture practice. Each of them claim that
its style has amazing clinical results with patients. Tans style acupuncture is one of
them. Dr. Tan teaches his style of acupuncture in the United States at many traditional
Chinese medicine (TCM) schools. There are many acupuncturists that practice his style
of acupuncture throughout the United States. The Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
has taught his style of acupuncture for several years.
This project will seek to compare and contrast traditional acupuncture and Tans
acupuncture from a theoretical and clinical point of view. This will be achieved through
examination of Dr. Tans books, interviews, as well as this authors training and
experience in TCM. It will focus on summarizing the essential similarities and
differences between traditional acupuncture and Dr. Tans Balance Method,
incorporating a comprehensive literature review, as well as clinician interviews. This
project will discuss both clinical and theoretical similarities and differences. Since Tans
acupuncture derives from traditional acupuncture, it is assumed that many similarities in
approach will be found. However, differences are also obvious.
Traditional acupuncture is the root of different styles of acupuncture, it is taught in TCM

schools around the world, and most acupuncturists practice it, however, Tan style
acupuncture is becoming more and more popular in the United Stated. Fewer needles are
used and patients can be treated in sitting position. Tan style acupuncture can be
considered highly efficacious and efficient in treating patients from patient reports,
despite lack of scientific research to confirm these conclusions. By focusing on two
popular, but quite different styles of acupuncture, this study will attempt to understand
the differences and similarities that these styles offer.
TCM Theory
Traditional Chinese Medicine, here after referred to as TCM, is based on theory

developed over the last two millennia. These theories include Yin-Yang theory, Eight
Principle theory, Zang-Fu theory and Five Element theory. The Five Element theory is a
complicated system of acupuncture pertaining to the natural world. While it is a part of
TCM theory, its clinical application is separate and distinct from TCM treatment.
Therefore, this style of acupuncture will not be discussed in this paper. These other
theories are discussed more fully below. TCM acupuncture treatment of disease is based
on the Zang-Fu organ theory and meridian theory. Within TCM, there are many
Microsystems of acupuncture, including but not limited to scalp acupuncture, ear
acupuncture, nose acupuncture, eye acupuncture, hand acupuncture, etc. these
Microsystems can be used as adjunctive therapy. Before treatment can begin, however, a
diagnosis must be determined. Diagnosis is made by what is commonly referred to as the
four methods: inspection, auscultation, olfaction, and palpation. This results in a
syndrome differentiation (this includes the yin-yang theory and eight principle theory
also). TCM medicine is considered to be an empirical medicine.
First there is Yin-Yang theory. Written between 300 and 100 BC, chapter 5 in the book
Plain Questions, also called The Su Wen states, Yin and yang are the laws of heaven and
earth, the great framework of everything, the parents of change, the root and beginning of
life and death1 Yin and yang represent the basic duality of the universe, which is
ultimately unified. One cannot exist without the other. Distinguishing between the yin
and yang qualities of persons constitutional make up or the qualities of ones illness is
important to diagnosis and is also used to determine treatment principles. Yin and yang
also complement each other. Yin is considered to be female in nature, while yang is
considered to be male in nature. In treatment, for example, yin includes the front of the
body, the internal organs, the blood, and the lower part of the body. Yang includes the
back of the body, the exterior, the qi, and the upper part of the body. When the yin and
yang are not balanced excess or deficiency will appear, resulting in illness. When yin and
yang are balanced, the body is at ease.
A more detailed application of Yin-Yang theory is Eight Principle theory. The eight
principles include: yin-yang (overall quality of illness), exterior-interior (the depth of
illness), excess-deficiency (strength of illness), and hot-cold (the nature of illness).
When differentiating syndromes using eight principles, these eight categories are used to
analyze pathology as well as determine treatment principles.
Qi and blood are the most basic substances within the body providing healthy life. Qi
though considered a somewhat untranslatable Chinese medical word, is generally
considered to be healthy moving energy. Hence, as stated in the Nan Jing or Classic of
Difficulties written around the second century A.D., Qi is the root of the human body;
Yan Lu, LAc TCM versus Tan Balance Method Page 4 of 46

the stem and leaves would dry up without a root.2 Likewise, blood is a substance that is
greater than just the red fluid that circulates throughout the body, it functions to provide
nutrition for the body. This is clearly defined in the 22nd Problem of the Nan Jing which
states, Blood dominates nourishment and moisture.3 As two of the most basic and vital
substances in the body, qi and blood are intimately related. It is commonly said that qi is
the commander of blood, and blood is the mother of qi, and in this way these two
substances greatly complement one another.
Formed about the time of the Yin and Zhou Dynasties (16th century-221 B.C.), the five
elements, namely wood, fire, earth, metal and water, are considered to be the five patterns
within all phenomena including the human body, and are derived from observations of
the natural world. As said in A Collections of Ancient Works, Food relies on water and
fire. Production relies on metal and wood. Earth gives birth to everything. They are
used by the people.4
There is also Zang-Fu theory. Zang-Fu is a general term for the internal organs of the
body. This theory is commonly used to treat internal organ dysfunction. There are five
Zang organs and six Fu organs. The five Zang organs are heart, lung, liver, kidney and
spleen (pericardium is considered as affiliation to the heart, not as separated organ). The
six Fu organs are gall bladder, stomach, small intestines, large intestine, bladder and
triple burner. The eleventh chapter of The Su Wen states, The so-called five Zang organs
store pure essential qi without draining it off, and for this reason they can be filled but not
over-filled. The six Fu organs transmit water and food without storing them, and for this
reason they may be over supplied but cannot be filled up.5 The main functions of Zang
organs are therefore to manufacture and store essential substances (qi, blood and body
fluid), while the Fu organs receive and digest food and dispel wastes. Zang-Fu theory is
used to diagnose and treat internal diseases.
Additionally there is the meridian theory. The meridians or channels are superficial
flows of energy connecting with internal Zang-Fu organs. This theory is used clinically in
the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and pain. The acupuncture points are specific
sites on those affected channels. There are twelve main channels and eight extra
meridians. The twelve main meridians include: Lung, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen,
Heart, Small Intestine, Bladder, Kidney, Pericardium, Triple Burner, Gall Bladder and
Liver. The extra meridians are: Conception channel, the Governing channel, the Belt
channel, the Penetrating channel, the Yang Heel channel, the Yin Heel channel, the Yang
Linking channel, and the Yin Linking channel.
Using these theories, a diagnosis can be made. For example, pain along a certain
meridian, will dictate the need to use the meridian theory for treatment. Diseases of
internal organs require the need to use Zang-Fu theory. In practice, Yin-Yang theory is
incorporated into the Meridian and Zang-Fu theories. Examination of the meridians and
acupoints are very important to determine appropriate treatment. This involves both
observation and palpation. Changes of skin color, bruising, blistering, etc can be
observed easily. Temperature changes in the skin as well as tenderness can be palpitated.
Lumps, bumps and nodules, etc can be felt along the meridians. For example, a raised red

lump on Liv14 indicates disharmony in the liver. Palpation also includes feeling both
radial pulses. Subtle changes within each pulse position are determined and used for both
diagnostic and treatment purposes. Dr. Tans balance method also uses palpation
techniques.
Meridian syndrome differentiation is used in order to determine which meridian is best

used to create a positive outcome from treatment. It is essential to locate the area of
illness and then, based on the pathway of meridians, determine treatment. Meridians are
identified and treated according to symptoms presenting. For example, pain along the
Large Intestine channel of the arm is treated according to meridian theory. Another
example, small red itchy bumps on the Small Intestine channel on the back is meridian
theory based. Disharmony of Zang-Fu organs can be treated with the organs
corresponding meridian. For example, heart pain can be treated with Heart channel.
Urinary problems can be treated with the Bladder channel, etc.
Acupuncture treatment principles are based on either the location of the disease or the
nature of the disease. (See previous discussion of syndrome differentiation of syndromes
for location of disease.) Treating the nature of the disease is to regulate yin and yang,
tonifying the healthy qi and expelling the pathogen. Regulating yin and yang indicates
reducing excess and tonifying deficiency to restore yin and yang balance. For example, a
febrile condition indicates a preponderance of yang, therefore, treatment focuses on
subduing the yang and nourishing the yin. A cold condition would likewise indicate
preponderance of yin and deficiency of yang. Treatment here would focus on warming
the yang and dispelling the yin cold. A pathogen cannot enter the body and disturb the
health if the patients constitutional qi is strong. Therefore, with any illness strengthening
the vital qi is essential. Dispelling the pathogen is equally vital to the treatment.
Methods of Selecting Acupuncture Points for TCM Treatment
The primary principles for selecting acupoints are to select along the meridians and
according to the pathology. Within TCM, there are many styles of acupuncture, so
point-selection can be varied and diverse. Some criteria for point selection are included
below. Diagnosis is primary and will naturally lead to point selection. For example,
musculoskeletal condition will benefit from meridian theory treatment. Local and distal
points will be chosen according to the meridians affected. Diseases of internal organs will
be treated according to Zang-Fu theory and appropriate points accordingly.
1. Selection of points in the front and back of the body: this method is called
paired-needling in Chapter 7 of Spiritual Pivot. In clinic, find the tenderness in
the chest or the abdomen area, then find the point on the back directly opposite
the tender point, needle these two points obliquely. This method is mainly used to
treat diseases in the chest or abdomen area. While it is similar, but not limited to
the selection of back-shu and front-mu points, other channel points can also be
used. For example, when treating stomachache, St21 can be selected in the front
and BL50 (level with BL21) can be selected in the back.
2. Selection of points in the upper and the lower: the upper indicates the upper limbs
and the area above the waist, while the lower indicates the lower limbs and the

area below the waist. In chapter 9 of Spiritual Pivot (Axis), it states, When the
disease is on the upper part, the acupoints down below can be picked, when the
disease is on the lower part, the acupoints on the upper part can be picked, when
the disease in the head, acupoints in the foot can be picked, when the disease in
the waist, acupoints in the popliteal fossa can be picked. This method is most
widely applied in the clinic. For example, for stomachache, Pc6 and St36 can be
selected; for pain in throat or in the teeth, LI4 and St44 can be selected; for
prolapse of uterus or anus, GV20 can be selected; for headache or stiff neck,
BL60 can be selected. These examples are the clinical application suggested by
The Yellow Emperors Canon of Internal Medicine.
3. Selection of acupoints in the left and the right: This is based on the crossingbody
character in meridians distribution. Opposing needling and contralateral needling
in Yellow Emperors Canon of Internal Medicine is the clinical application of this
method. It is mainly used in treating diseases in the face and head. For example,
facial paralysis in the left, right LI4 can be selected. Because the meridians
distribution is bilateral, when treating diseases of internal organs, points on the
left and right are both selected to reinforce their effect. For example, stomach
disease can be treated with BL21 and St36 on both left and right. In addition,
there is also a method selecting the point on the healthy side to treat the disease on
the ill side. For example, when treating paralysis and pain, this method can be
used.
4. Selection acupoints internally and externally related: this method is based on the
yin and yang, the internal-external relationship of Zang and Fu organs, and the
meridians. For example, diseases in the yin meridians can be treated by the
acupoints in the yang meridians, which are internally and externally related with
the yin meridians, and vice versa. In chapter 28 of Spiritual Pivot it states, When
the cold energy enters the stomach, the chaotic energy of the Jue-syndrome
diffuse, it runs from bottom to top and comes out from the stomach to cause
eructation. When treating, apply invigorating therapy by pricking the acupoints of
the Foot Taiyin channel of the Spleen and the Foot Yangming channel of
Stomach. In chapter 20 of Spiritual Pivot it states, When the evil energy is in
the kidney, pain in the bone, the yin-type bi-syndrome will occur. In the yin-type
bi-syndrome, the painful location can hardly be pressed with the hand, the patient
will have abdomen distension, lumbago, dyschesia, pain and stiffness in the
shoulder, back and neck, and frequent dizziness. When treating, select Kid1 and
BL60. The above two examples are based on the internal and external
relationship of Zang and Fu organs and meridians. This method can be applied in
treating common diseases, but is not limited to yuan-source and luo-connecting
points.
5. Selection of proximal acupoints: This is a method of selecting acupoints located
on or near the area of the disease. This method can be divided into two types:
selection of local points and selection of adjacent points.
a. Selection of local points including ashi points (tender point) means to
select acupoints located in the affected area. For example, the Taiyang
acupoint is selected to treat temporal headache; St6 is selected to treat jaw
pain, etc.

b. Selection of adjacent points means to select acupoints located near the
affected area. For example, BL7 is selected to treat nasosinusitis; and
BL32 is selected to treat menstrual pain.
6. Selection of distal points is a method of selecting acupoints distal to the affected
area. The acupoints selected in this condition are often located below the elbows
and knees. This method for selecting acupoints is based on the pathways and
interrelationships of channels and collaterals. For example, LI4 is selected to treat
facial pain; Liv5 is selected to treat inguinal hernia pain; BL40 is selected to treat
low back pain; Lu11 is selected to treat sore throat; Pc6 is selected to treat to treat
nausea and vomiting; St36 is selected to treat digestive disorders.
7. General classification of Acupoints. Some of these classifications include
a. The five shu points: The shu points, or antique points as they are
sometimes called, are five acupoints located on each meridian generally
below the knees and elbows. They are jing-well, ying-spring, shu-stream,
jing-river and he-sea. Jing-well points are primarily used to treat fever.
Ying-spring points are also used to treat febrile disease when the patients
complexion is changing color. Shu-stream points treat joints pain and
heaviness in the body. Jing-river points treat diseases affecting voice. He-
sea points treat the corresponding internal organs.
b. The yuan-source points: Each meridian has a yuan-source point generally
located near the wrist or ankle. These points are said to contain yuan or
source energy.
c. The luo-connecing points: There are 15 luo-connecting points. These
points connect the meridians internally and externally, so they treat
symptoms of the two internally and externally related Zang-Fu paired
channels.
d. The xi-cleft points: or accumulating points are used to treat acute
conditions.
e. The back-shu points: they are points associated with their corresponding
organs. These points are located near the spine. Generally these points are
used to tonify their associated organ.
f. The front-mu points: these points are located on the chest and abdomen.
They are also used to treat internal organs.
g. The eight confluent points: This is another classification of acupoints to
treat certain specific conditions. For example GB34 treats muscles and
tendons.
h. Points with empirical function(s). For example, GV14 clears heat and
wind, GV20 can treat prolapse of internal organs.
Methods of manipulating the needles
Manipulation refers to certain needling techniques used to achieve desired results.

1. Tonifying methods are used in cases of deficiency, including:
a. heavy pressing of the needle to a deep region
b. lifting the needle gently and slowly after the needle is inserted to a certain
depth and the needle sensation appears

c. rotating the needle gently and slowly with small amplitude when the
needle is inserted to a certain depth
d. inserting the needle slowly and withdraw it rapidly
e. pressing the hole quickly to close on withdrawing of the needle
f. the direction of the needle tip pointing, i.e. following the running course of
the meridians
g. Chapter 27 of Plain Questions states, The reinforcing is achieved by
inserting the needle when the patient breathes in and withdrawing the
needle when the patient breathes out.
2. Reducing methods are used in cases of excess: In The Classic of Medical
Problems, the 78th problem, it states, Heavy pressing of the needle to a deep
region is known as reinforcing, while forceful lifting of the needle to the
superficial region is known as reducing. Additional methods include:
a. lifting the needle forcefully and rapidly while thrusting the needle gently
and slowly
b. rotating the needle rapidly with large amplitude
c. inserting the needle rapidly and withdraw it slowly
d. shake the needle to enlarge the hole on withdrawing of the needle
e. the needle tip pointing downwards, i.e. against the channels course
f. inserting the needle when the patient breathes out and withdraw the needle
when the patient breathes in.
Dr. Richard Tans Balance method
Introduction
The Balance Method consists of an acupuncture system based on balancing the meridians
developed by Dr. Richard Teh-Fu Tan. Dr. Tan is from Taiwan and began his studies at
seven years of age. Each summer he studied with three different masters. He worked in
an emergency room of a busy hospital performing acupuncture. He later came to the
United States and received an advanced education degree in engineering. He has been
developing and presenting his theories in the United States since the early 1990s. Dr.
Tan has translated the classics into an understandable form with practical use. The
balance system relies on two-step system: (1) identifying the affected meridian and (2)
identifying the meridian to be treated to achieve health. It is a distal only system and de qi
sensation is required when needling. Twisting and thrusting techniques are often used.
Tonification and reducing techniques are not applicable. Needles are usually retained for
forty-five to sixty minutes and re-stimulation of the needles must happen at least once
during the treatment. Massage or Tuina may be performed before needling. Mirroring and
imaging are used to choose acupoints on the chosen treatment meridian. The core of the
balance method consists of five systems, however several more advanced systems have
been developed. The root theory is the same as the theory in traditional Chinese
medicine, but the clinical applications are quite different.

Yin Yang and Bagua theory in the Balance Method
Dr. Tan begins each seminar with Yin-Yang theory. In the beginning, there is Wu Ji no
limits in the universe. Then comes Tai Ji which indicates a boundary or limit. Therefore
from one comes two.
Yin-yang has now developed into eight trigrams, also known as the Bagua:
Trigrams are read from the bottom line to the top line. The heaven Gua is balanced with
the earth Gua with the 3 yang lines balanced with the 3 yin lines. So GV is balanced with
CV. The lake Gua is balanced with mountain Gua: the 1st and the 2nd yang lines in the
lake Gua are balanced with the 1st and the 2nd yin lines in the mountain, the 3rd yin line
in the lake Gua is balanced with the 3rd yang line in the mountain Gua. So LU is balanced
with Sp, LI is balanced with St. It is the same with other Guas. This explains the reason
for the pairing in system onebalancing the body.

Also important is the balance of the taiji symbol below.

Noticing the Complete Balance
As seen above, the taiji symbol balances yin and yang within itself. Yin is within yang,
and yang is within yin, absolute yang becomes yin, absolute yin becomes yang. Complete
balance is contained within the symbol (further discussion occurs later in the paper).
The Ba Gua are also balancing each other. As the emperor stands in the center of the
Bagua looking outward, the lines of the Gua are read from the bottom to the top. Each
trigram is balanced with another trigram. In the heaven trigram, for instance, three yang
lines are balanced with the earth trigram which has three yin lines. Similarly lake is
balanced with mountain, fire is balanced with water, thunder is balanced with wind.

Mirror imaging
Mirror imaging also helps in Balance Treatment point selection. After identifying the
affected meridian, an appropriate distal meridian to needle is selected (more on how to
select a meridian to follow). One mirrors the affected area onto a corresponding
anatomical location on the chosen needled meridian. For example, knees correspond with
elbows, ankles with wrists, feet with hands, hips with shoulders, etc. Imagery is a creative
component in this system of acupuncture. The image is in the eye of the practitioner. For
example, the hand can be treated for problems in the head. The foot may also be treated
for problems in the head. The eyes of the knees might be needled to treat the actual eyes.
The eyes might be treated for testicular pain. The nose can be needled for penile
problems. Needling the middle finger can also treat penile pain. The image is clear,
additionally, the hand Jueyin channel ends at the tip of the middle finger. Foot Jueyin
channel circles the external genitalia. Needling around the mouth can treat problems with
the anus and female genitalia. The side of the face can be needled to treat gluteal pain.
The image here is cheek to cheek. Each limb can correspond with the trunk. The knee and
elbow, the middle of each limb, corresponds with the middle of the trunkthe naval
area. The sacrum can be treated by needling the foot or the hand, or by needling the
sternum. Palpation for tenderness is helpful tool for deciding which image to use.
Five basic systems

The five core balance treatment systems show the connections between meridians and
how to choose systematically which channel should be treated. Here is the pairing of
affected meridians and the treatment meridians.
1. System 1 pairs channels according to the same Chinese meridian name. Hand
channels balance foot channels, yin channels balance yin channels and yang
channels balance yang channels. Namely, Hand Taiyang and Foot Taiyang
balance each other. Hand Yangming and Foot Yangming balance each other,
as do Hand Shaoyang and Foot Shaoyang meridians. Hand Taiyin balances
with Foot Taiying, and Hand Shaoyin and Foot Shaoyin also balance each
other. Hand and Foot Jueyin also balance each other. Furthermore, in this
system, the Ren and Du channels balance each other. For example, a sprained
ankle at right GB40 area is treated by needling left TB4.
2. System 2 consists of bie-jing or branching channels. In this system, hand

channels are paired with foot channels and foot channels are paired with hand
channels. This system pairs Taiyang with Taiyin, Shaoyang with Shaoyin, and
Yangming with Jueyin. Hand Taiyang is paired with Foot Taiyin, Foot
Taiyang with Hand Taiyin. Hand Shaoyang is paired with Foot Shaoyin, and
Foot Shaoyang is paired with Hand Shaoyin. Hand Yangming is paired with
Foot Jueyin, and Foot Yangming is paired with Hand Jueyin. For example,
sprained ankle at Sp5 is treated by needling SI5 on either side. Needle the side
that is more tender.

In the above diagram, the words appear to be written opposite of what they should be.
They demonstrate the intricate balance of this system.
Refer to diagram on page 10.

Start from the center guas and work outwards. Yang channels correspond with yang
yao, yin channels correspond with yin yao. GB and SJ are yang channels, therefore,
they form the first line of the gua, a yang line. Liv and Pc are yin channels, therefore
they form the second line of the gua, a yin line. UB and SI are yang channels,
therefore they form the third line of the gua, a yang line. These three lines form the
fire gua.
Kid and Ht are yin channels, therefore, the first line of the new gua is a yin line. St
and LI are yang channels, therefore the second line of the gua is a yang line, Sp and
Lu are yin channels, therefore the third line of the gua is a yin line. These lines form
the water gua. Fire balances water. Every line in each gua balances with the
corresponding line in the other gua. Keep the channel names plugged into each line of
the two guas. Therefore, Taiyang is balanced with Taiyin, Jueyin balances Yangming,
and Shaoyang balances Shaoyin.
3. System 3 consists of biao-li or exterior/interior pairs. This system pairs hand

channels with hand channels based on corresponding Zang-Fu organ
relationship. For example Small Intestine channel treats Heart channel, and
Heart channel treats the Small Intestine channel. Yin channels treat yang
channels, and yang channels treat yin channels. Hand Taiyin, Lung treats
Hand Yangming, Large Intestine and vice versa. Leg Yangming, Stomach
balances with Leg Taiyin, Spleen. Hand Shaoyin, Heart balances with Hand
Taiyang, Small Intestine. Leg Taiyang, Urinary Bladder balances with Leg
Shaoyin, Kidney. Hand Jueyin, Pericardium balances with Hand Shaoyang,
Triple Burner. And Foot Shaoyang, Gall Bladder balances with Leg Jueyin,
Liver. For example, wrist pain at left Ht7 is treated by needling right SI5.
4. System 4 consists of Chinese clock opposites. Important treatment

information is contained within the Chinese clock. The clock links internally
and externally paired channels-i.e. Lu and LI. the clock also links channels
according to the same Chinese meridian names. For example, hand Yangming
flows into foot yangming. Other clinical possibilities must also exist. Clock

opposites are a treatment option. Yin balances the yang and hand channels
balance foot channels.
In this system, the Chinese clock is used to determine which meridians are
selected. Identify the sick or affected meridian and using the Chinese clock,
the channel to be needled will be opposite the clock from the sick meridian.
Clock opposites are as follows:
In this system yin balance yang and yang balance yin channels, hand channels balance
the foot channels and vice versa. For example, elbow pain at Ht3 is treated by needling
GB34 on either side. Needle more tender side.
5. System 5 needles neighbors on the Chinese clock. The Chinese clock looks
like this:
As previously stated in system 4, the Chinese clock has lots of clinical information to be
used. Notice that many neighbors on the clock are already systematically paired. The
lung and the Large Intestine are internally and externally paired. Large Intestine and

Stomach comprise the Yangming paring. Stomach and Spleen are internally and
externally paired. Spleen and Heart have not yet been paired. Might their relationship as
neighbors on the clock be as clinically effective as the previously mentioned pairs? Yes.
As there is overlap with other systems, in system 5, the focus is on these pairings:
Spleen and Heart

Kidney and Pericardium
Lung and Liver
Hand channels are paired with foot channels, and foot channels are paired with hand
channels. Yin channels are paired with yin channels and yang channels are paired with
yang channels. For example, a sprained ankle at left Sp5 is treated by needling the right
Ht7.
Clinical application of TCM versus Dr. Tans Balance Method in Pain treatment
Headache
TCM
In traditional Chinese medicine, headache has many different syndrome differentiations.
For wind invasion, the points used to treat this type are divided into categories to treat
headache according to its location.
For occipital headache, use GB20, BL60, SI3.
For frontal headache, use St8, Yintang, GV23, LI4, St44
For temporal headache, use Taiyang, GB8, TB5, GB41
For vertex headache, use GV20, SI3, BL67, Liv3.
These points are a mixture of local and distal points selected for use according to the
location of the headache. In addition, it is notable that GB20 and SI3 are both empirical
points to expel pathogenic wind. Similarly, BL60 and SI3 are points in the Foot and Hand
Taiyang meridians. St8, Yintang and GV23 are local frontal headache points. LI4 and
St44 are Hand and Foot Yangming points. LI4 also empirically dispels wind. For
temporal headache, points on the Hand and Foot Shaoyang meridians are commonly
used. TB5 also empirically dispels wind. For vertex headache, GV20 is local, SI3 opens
the GV channel, and expel the wind, BL67 is jing-well point on the Foot Taiyang
meridian. The vertex area belongs to Liver channel, therefore, Liv3, the source point of
the Liver channel is selected.
For headache due to liver yang rising, use the following points:
GB20, LIV2, LIV3, GB43, GV20, SP6 or KID3, GB5.
Once again, these points are common local and distal points used to subdue liver yang.
Liv2 is a ying spring point, therefore clearing heat. Liv3 is the source point. GB43 is also

ying-spring point clearing heat. GB5 is a local point as is GB20 and GV20. Sp6 and Kid3
nourish the yin to anchor the yang.
For qi and blood deficiency headache, treatment is aimed at building the qi and blood and
bringing them to the head.
GV20, St36, CV6, BL18, BL20 are needled.
GV20 brings the qi and blood to the headache, St36 and CV6 are used to tonify the qi.
BL18 and BL20 are used to guild the blood.
Balance Method
Using the Balance Method to treat headache, location is the most important diagnostic
tool employed.
For frontal headache, considered to be a damp headache, Leg Yangming channel
is used as it encompasses the face. Therefore, use Sp9 or St43. Sp9 is a he-sea
point. He-sea points are used to dry dampness. St43 is the shu-stream point on the
Foot Yangming channel; imagining that the foot is the head, St43 is in the
location of the front of the head. If the location of the headache is specifically at
GB13, treatment is different. Using system 1, which overlaps with system 5, treat
pain in the foot Shao yang channel by needling TB 3. System 2 overlaps with
system 4, needle Ht 8. System 3 overlaps with system 5, needle Liv 3.
For occipital headache, first determine which channels are affected, for Leg
Shaoyang headache (GB20), point selection is based on palpation for the most
tender points. Therefore, different points are possible. For example, using system
one, Hand Shaoyang-TB4 is needled. Hand Shaoyin channel might be needled if
using system 2, the bie-jing/branching channel or using the opposite clock-system
4. The point selected on this channel is Ht7. One other possible clinical approach
might be using biao-li or exterior-interior pairs of system 3. In this system, the
Foot Shaoyang channel is balanced with Foot Jueyin channel-Liver. The point
selected on this channel using the mirror image is Liv4. If, however, the occipital
headache is located on the Foot Taiyang meridian, the treatment is very different.
Using system one, the Foot Taiyang channel is balanced with Hand Taiyang
channel; SI 5 is needled. System 2 and system 4 overlap in this situation. The
Foot Taiyang meridian is balanced with Hand Taiyin - Lung meridian; Lu9 is
needled. Using system 3 the biao-li or exterior-interior pair, Foot Taiyang is
balanced by Foot Shaoyin; Kid3 is therefore needled.
For temporal or Foot Shaoyang headache, meridian choices are already discussed
under the heading of occipital headache. However, using the mirror image, point
selection on each channel will be different, as temporal headache is more superior
than that of the occipital headache. In system 1, Hand Shaoyang, TB3 is needled.
In system 2 and 4, the Foot Shaoyang channel is balanced with Hand Shaoyin
channel. Using the mirror image, Ht8 is needled. Finally, system 3 the interior-
exterior relationship, Foot Shaoyang is balanced with Foot JueyinLiv3.
Vertex headache belongs to the Foot Jueyin channel. The internal channel of the
Foot Jueyin ends at the vertex. Using system 1, Foot Jueyin is balanced with hand

Jueyin; Pc8 or Pc9 is needled. System 2 branching channel, Foot Jueyin is
balanced with Hand Yangming, therefore, LI1 or LI2 is needled. System 3,
interior/exterior pair, Foot Shaoyang is balanced with Foot Jueyin; GB43 or GB44
is needled. In system 4 clock opposite, Hand Taiyang balances Foot Jueyin. SI 2
or SI 3 is needled. System 5, using clock neighbors, Hand Taiyin balances Foot
Jueyin, therefore Lu10 or Lu11 is needled.
Neck Pain
TCM
Neck pain has three different syndrome differentiations: wind-damp-cold invasion, qi and
blood stagnation, and kidney deficiency. For pain in the back of the neck, a mixture of
local and distal points will be used.
Locally, BL10, BL11, GB20, GB21, GV14, SI11 and SI12 are needled. For wind-
cold-damp invasion, add either TB5 or SI3 and Sp9.
For qi and blood stagnation, add LI4, Liv3, SI3, BL62. For kidney deficiency, add
Kid3 or CV6.
For pain in the front or the side of the neck, needle St9, LI17, LI18, SI16 locally.
The distal points remain the same as described above as per syndrome
differentiation.
Balance Method
For the balance method treatment, location of the pain remains essential.
For Foot Taiyang neck pain, system 1 Hand Taiyang is needled; SI6A or SI5A is
appropriate. System 2 and system 4 overlap each other. Therefore, Hand Taiyin
channel is needled, Lu7. The master points are the obvious choice, and Lu8 or
Lu9 may additionally be added as needed. System 3 interior-exterior pair, Foot
Shaoyin channel, Kid3 to Kid7 is needled. System 5 in this case overlaps with
system 1 and system 3.
For Foot Shaoyang neck pain, system1 Hand Shaoyang TB4 or TB5 is needled.
System 2 branching channel overlaps with system 4. Therefore, Hand Shaoyin
channel is needled; Ht4 to Ht7 might be chosen. Tenderness upon palpitation is
the indicator in point selection. Sytem 3 internal-exterior pair Leg Jueyin channel
is needledLiv4, or possibly Sp6 is needled.
For pain in the Hand Yangming channel, using system 1, the Foot Yangming
channel is needledperhaps St41A. In system 2, branching channel Leg Jueyin is
needledpossibly Liv4 or Sp6. For system 3 internal-external pairs, the Hand
Taiyin channel is needled; once again we are focusing on the master point of the
neck, Lu7. Lu8 or Lu9 may be needled as well. System 4, clock opposite, Leg
Shaoyin channel is needled. Kid3 to Kid7 is a great choice. System 5 overlaps
with systems 1 and 3.

For pain in the Ren channel, needle the Du channel in the neck, and possibly add
Lu7. It is interesting to note that using the Balance Method explains why Lu7 is
the master point of the neckits position on the wrist represents the image of the
neck, and balances the channels just as described above.
Shoulder pain
TCM
Shoulder pain has 3 different syndrome differentiations: qi and blood stagnation, wind-
cold invasion, qi and blood deficiency. A mixture of local and distal points may be used.
For pain in the front of the shoulder of the shoulder, the primary points to be
needled are LI15, LI16, Lu1, Lu2 and Lu3. St38 is empirical point for shoulder
pain.
For qi and blood stagnation, add LI4, Liv3.
For wind-cold invasion, add GB20 or TB5.
For qi and blood deficiency, add St36 and Sp6.
The points selected for each syndrome differentiation are applicable for each area of
shoulder pain.
For pain on the side of the shoulder, needle LI15, LI16, TW 14, LI14, TB13. St38
may also be needled.
For pain the back of the shoulder, needle SI9, SI10. SI11, SI12, SI13, SI14 and
GB21are needled. Distally SI3 and St38 may be added.
Balance Method
Again, as in all Balance Method treatments, location is the key to diagnosis and
treatment.
For Hand Taiyin shoulder pain and using system 1 treat the opposite Foot Taiyin
channel, check for tender points from Sp6A to Sp7A. In system 2, branching
channels, Foot Taiyang treats Hand Taiyin; this overlaps with system 5, clock
opposites: palpate BL57 to BL58 area for the tender points and needle the Ashi.
For system 3, internal external pairs, Hand Yangming balances Hand Taiyin;
check opposite side LI6 to LI7 for the tender points and needle. With system 5,
neighbors on the clock, Foot Jueyin balances Hand Taiyin, palpate and needle
tender point from Sp6A to Liv5.
For the treatment of Hand Yangming shoulder pain, system 1 is very interesting,
as Foot Yangming balances Foot Yangming. This can explain why in TCM St38
is used frequently as an empirical point for shoulder pain. Needle all tender points
in that area. Foot Jueyin balances Hand Yangming in system 2. Once again,
palpate and needle tender points from Sp6A to Liv5. System 3, matching

interiorexterior pairs, balances Hand Taiyin and Hand Yangming, check
therefore the Lu6A area and needle the tender spots. In system 4, clock-opposite,
Foot Shaoyin balances Hand Yangming; check Sp6 to Kid9 area.
In the case of Hand Shaoyang shoulder pain, and using system 1, Foot Shaoyang
balances Hand Shaoyang. Check GB36A to GB39A, palpate and needle the
tender points. In branching channel, system 2, Hand Shaoyang is balanced with
Foot Shaoyin; check Sp6 to Kid9 area and needle the tender spots. System 3 is
interior-exterior paired channels; Hand Jueyin balances with Hand Shaoyang.
Check Pc4 to Pc6 for tenderness. System 4 clock opposite; foot taiyin balances
with hand shaoyangpalpate Sp6 to Sp6 for tender spots. System 5 overlaps with
system 1 and system 3.
For Hand Taiyang shoulder pain, according to system 1, Foot Taiyang balances
with Foot Taiyang; palpate BL57A to BL58A, possibly to BL59 and needle the
tender spots. System 2 is branching channels, so Foot Taiyin balances with Hand
Taiyang; palpate Sp6A to Sp7A. System 3, interior-exterior pairs, Hand Taiyang
treats Hand Shaoyin; palpate Ht4A. In system 4 clock opposite (a big player),
Foot Jueyin balances Hand Taiyang. Palpate Sp6A to Liv5 and needle all tender
spots. System 5 overlaps with system 1 and system 3.
Back pain
TCM
In general, GV and Bladder meridians are selected for treating back pain. Points include
BL23, GV3 or GV4, BL40. There are three syndrome diagnoses for low back pain:
damp-cold invasion, kidney deficiency, and traumatic injury. Each diagnosis has
additional points.
For damp-cold invasion, add BL25, BL26, and moxa BL23 and GV4.
For kidney deficiency, add BL52 and KID3. Moxibustion may be applicable as
well if the kidney yang is deficient.
For traumatic injury, bleed BL40, needle GV26, Yaotongxue, and local Ashi
points.
BL23 is the back shu point of the kidney, Kid3 is the yuan-source point on the kidney
channel, and BL52 is the outer kidney point on the bladder channelall three points
reinforce the kidney. GV3 is the lumbar yang gate, GV4 is the life gate, so both of these
points support the kidney as well. BL40 is known as the Ruler of the back (empirical
point). Yaotongxue is an extra point on the hand that is also empirically used for low
back pain. GV26 is a distal point used on the GV channel.
Balance Method
Mid and low back pain are approached similarly when treating with Dr. Tans balance
method. Locating the meridians involved is of primary important. Obviously the Foot

Taiyang channel traverses the entire back, and therefore is almost always involved. The
Dai mai, Du channel, Gall Bladder channel and the internal branch of the Kidney channel
can also be involved.
Foot Taiyang meridian pain due to qi and blood stagnation:
o System 1 Hand Taiyang balances Foot Taiyang. Palpation is critical. SI3
or SI4 may be needled when using the image of the hand as the sacrum.
Similarly the scapula can be used as the image of the sacrum. Therefore a
tender point on the hand Taiyang channel on the upper backSI9 to
SI14might be needled. If the tender point is at the wrist, it corresponds
to BL23 area; palpate SI8, which is located at the middle of the arm. If the
pain is at BL35 and BL36 area, SI18 might be needled using the image of
cheek to cheek.
o System 2 branching meridian overlaps with system 4, the clock-opposite.
Hand Taiyin balances the Foot Taiyang. If the pain is in the middle of the
backBL23 areacheck Lu5 area. For lower gluteal pain at BL35 and
BL36 area, using the mirror image, needle the opposite Lu1 or Lu2 area. It
is an extremely simple and highly effective treatment.
o System 3 interior-exterior pairs Foot Shaoyin with Foot Taiyang.
Abdominal palpation is critical. Several needles can be inserted on the
channel where there is tenderness. For example, pain in BL 23 area might
be effectively treated by needling Kid15 or Kid16 area, if that area is
tender. Lower back pain might be treated by needling the upper end of the
kidney channelKid26 or Kid27 Ashi. As kidney qi deficiency is usually
a component of back pain, the yuan-source point of the kidney channel,
Kid3, is frequently additionally needled.
o System 5 neighbors on the clock overlaps with system 1 and system 3.
For pain on the Du channel treat the tender spot on the Ren channel. Also Du
points on the scalp can be effective.
Pain in the Foot Shaoyang channel can be located at either GB25 or GB30 area.
o System 1 Hand Shaoyang balances with Foot Shaoyang. For pain at
GB25, palpate TB10 or TB9 and one half, the points above and below the
midpoint of the arm, the elbow. For pain in GB30, check TB14 or possibly
the TB15 area.
o System 2 branching channels overlaps with system 4 clock-opposite. Hand
Shaoyin balances Foot Shaoyang. For Pain in GB25, the midpoint of the
back, check Ht3. For pain in GB30, check Ht8 area. System 3 interior-
exterior pairs Foot Jueyin pain with Foot Shaoyang. For pain in GB25,
check Tans Liv8 (located on the head of the tibia), or Liv13 (the midpoint
on the abdomen). For GB30 pain area, check Liv3 (thinking of the foot as
the sacrum), or Liv10 and Liv11 area.
o System 5 overlaps with system 1 and system 3.

Pain in the Dai Mai channel: see treatment for Foot Shaoyang, Foot Taiyang, Du
channel and Kidney channel. Possibly needle GB41 and TB5 to open up the Dai
Mai.
Foot Shaoyin channel pain: the internal channel of the kidney runs through the
low back, and therefore, it must be considered for treatment.
o System 1 Hand Shaoyin balances the Foot Shaoyin. For pain in the sacrum
area, check Ht8. For pain in the wrist, check Ht3 area.
o For system 2 branching channels, Hand Shaoyang balances Foot Shaoyin
channel. For sacrum pain, check TB3 or the extra-point on the TB channel
called ZongBai. For pain in the waist, check TB9 and one half or the area
around TB10.
o For system 3 the interior-exterior pairs, Foot Taiyang balances Foot
Shaoyin. For pain at the waist, check BL40. For sacrum pain, check and
needle the tender points on the foot.
o In System 4 the clock opposite, Hand Yangming balances Foot Shaoyin.
This explains the extra points Lingu and Dabai, as well as LI4, work for
the low back pain.
o In system 5 neighbors on the clock, Hand Jueyin balances Foot Shaoyin.
Check Pc3 for mid-back pain Pc8 for sacrum area pain.
Both TCM and the Balance Method move qi and blood to relieve the pain. Although
there are more differences clinically in treating low back pain, there are also several
notable similarities. BL40 might be needled as might GV26 or other GV points on the
head. Yaotongxue and Zongbai are in fact the same points.
Treatment theory for low back pain is very different in TCM than in the Balance Method,
however. In TCM, treatment is aimed at syndrome differentiation while the balance
method treats channel pain. TCM includes local treatment and limited distal needling
while the Balance Method has a variety of options for distal needling based the location
of the pain and the systems used to treat it.
Hip pain
TCM
Here, hip pain refers specifically to pain in the greater trochanter, or more superior-hip
pain, and the channel most often affected is the Foot Shaoyang channel. There are three
TCM syndrome differentiations: qi and blood stagnation, damp-cold invasion, and liver
blood deficiency failing to nourish the tendons in this area.
The points for qi and blood stagnation are GB29, GB31, GB40 and local Ashi
points. GB29 is a local point, as well as GB31. GB40 is the source point on the
Gall Bladder channel.

For damp-cold invasion, needle GB29, the local point. GB31 might be used to
dispel wind-cold. GB39 is the distal point to dispel cold in the Gall Bladder
channel. GB41 may or may not be needled depending on the extent of the
radiation of pain. It is the master of Dai Mai.
For liver blood deficiency, in addition to local points, Liv3 and GB34 are needled.
Liv3 is the source point, GB34 is the influential point of tendons, and Sp6 is a
great point for nourishing blood.
Balance Method
For treatment of hip pain in GB meridian:
System 1, Hand Shaoyang meridian is selected, TB14 to TB15 or TB4 and TB5
are palpated and needled.
System 2, Hand Shaoyin meridian is selected, Ht1A or Ht7 is needled.
System 3, Foot Jueyin meridian is selected, Liv4 area is needled.
System 4 overlaps with system 2.
System 5 overlaps with system 1.
Knee pain
TCM
When treating knee pain, it is important to differentiate between kidney deficiency and a
pain syndrome. Pain syndromes include cold-damp, bony-bi syndrome, and qi and blood
stagnation due to injury or trauma.
For kidney deficiency, needle Kid3 and Kid10. Local tender points are also
needled.
Bony-bi syndrome can be treated with the same protocol as kidney deficiency.
For cold and dampness, needle Sp9, St36, and GB34. These are he-sea points,
which transform dampness. Local tender points are also needled. Moxibustion is
applicable.
Qi and blood stagnation can be treated with local tender points as well as LI 4 and
Liv3.
Balance Method
The mirror image for the knee is the elbow. As the knee is the midpoint of the leg, the
midpoint of the trunk can effectively be the image used. Fortunately, there is also a useful
trick employed:
With the arm bent at 75 degrees, a needle can be threaded from LI11 to Ht3.
Additional points can be needled. Using the five systems, find a sick channel or
channels and needle the appropriate channel points in the elbow region or on the

mid-point of the abdomen-navel level. For example, knee pain at St35 may be
treated by needling LI11, Pc3, or Sp15.
For knee pain in the Stomach meridian and using system 1, Hand Yangming
meridian is selected; LI11 can be needled. For system 2, Hand Jueyin meridian is
selected and Pc3 can be needled. System 3, internal external pairs, one selects
Foot Taiyin meridian; Sp9 to Sp10 can be needled. Sp15 can be needled if the
abdominal imagery is useful. System 4 overlaps with system 3. System 5 overlaps
with system 1.
For knee pain in the Spleen meridian, system 1, Hand Taiyin meridian is selected;
Lu5 can be needled. System 2, Hand Taiyang meridian can be selected and SI8
can be needled. For system 3, Foot Yangming meridian can be selected; St36 can
be needled. St25 can also be needled if the abdomen is treated. System 4, clock
opposite system, utilizes Hand Shaoyang, the Triple Burner meridian; TB10 can
be needled. System 5, clock neighbor, selects Hand Shaoyin meridian; Ht3 can be
needled.
For knee pain in the Liver meridian, using system 1, Hand Jueyin meridian is
selected; Pc3 can be needled. In system 2, Hand Yangming meridian can be
selected, and LI11 can be needled. For system 3, Foot Shaoyang meridian can be
selected; GB34 or GB33 can be needled. GB26 or GB25 can be needled if
abdominal imagery is used. System 4, clock opposite, uses Hand Tai yang
meridian, so SI8 can be needled. In system 5, clock neighbor, Hand Taiyin
meridian can be selected; Lu5 can be needled.
For pain in the Kidney meridian, system 1, Hand Shaoyin meridian can be
selected and Ht7 is needled. System 2, Hand Shaoyang meridian, can be selected;
TB10 can be needled. In system 3, Hand Foot Taiyang meridian can be selected,
and BL40 can be needled. BL23 may also be needled if abdomen is treated.
System 4, Hand Yangming meridian can be selected, and LI11 can be needled.
System 5, Hand Jueyin meridian can be needled at Pc3.
For knee pain in Bladder meridian using system 1, Hand Taiyang meridian can be
selected and SI8 can be needled. For system 2, Hand Taiyin meridian is selected;
Lu5 can be needled. In system 3, Foot Shaoyin meridian can be selected, needling
Kid 10. Kid16 can be needled if treating the abdomen. System 4 overlaps with
system 2. System 5 overlaps with system 1.
For knee pain in Gall Bladder meridian, system 1, Hand Shaoyang meridian can
be selected; TB10 can be needled. System 2 selects Hand Shaoyin meridian,
where Ht3 can be needled. In system 3, Foot Jueyin meridian is selected, so Liv7
to Liv 8 can be needled. Liv13 can be needled if the abdomen is treated. System 4
overlaps with system 2. System 5 overlaps with system 1.
Phantom limb pain

TCM
There is no classical treatment in the TCM text books for phantom limb pain. Certainly
scalp acupuncture and auricular acupuncture are applicable. In Jiaos scalp acupuncture,
sensory zone 1 can be chosen. In Zhus scalp acupuncture, upper limb or lower limb zone
can be needled. In auricular acupuncture, the sympathetic point and the corresponding
limb-appendage points may be needled.
The Balance Method does have an obvious advantage in the treatment of phantom limb
pain. Because the Balance Method never needles locally, no protocol change is required.
Most patients can identify the phantom area of pain, therefore, the affected channel is
treated distally, using one of the five systems.
Balance Method Approach to Internal Syndromes
When treating musculoskeletal problems, a sick meridian is identified, and, using the five
core systems as explained previously, a healthy meridian is needled to achieve balance
and relive pain. When treating internal syndromes, the yin-yang balancing dynamic is
used. A deeper understanding of what the Taiji symbol represents is therefore required.

As Dr. Tan explains in his Dr. Tan Strategy of Twelve Magical Points:
The Taiji symbol originates from the wisdom of I-Ching, and represents
the ebb and flow of the yin-yang forces. The Taiji forms the foundation of
Chinese medicine. It illustrates the concept of mutual attraction of
opposites and dynamic balance The two rotating fish of the Taiji
represent an active, global equilibrium between the yin and yang
attributes. The yang emerges, increases, reaches its highest peak and
recedes. Then yin emerges, increases, reaches its highest peak and recedes.
Without the yin, there is no yang, without the yang, there is no yin. The
two dots within the Taiji symbol suggest that the seed of the opposite
energy is contained at the extreme point of each of the two forces. This
alternating energetic rotation is a natural movement of opposite forces that
can be utilized to create change in physical, mental, or emotional
conditions.6
When treating internal syndromes, an alternating format of selected yin and yang
meridians create the yin-yang balancing dynamic. The yin meridian of the upper right
attracts the yang meridian on the upper left, the yang meridian on the upper left limb

attracts the yin meridian on the lower left limb, the lower left yin attracts the lower right
yang, the connection is completed with the lower right yang attracts the upper right yin.
RIGHT LEFT
Yin Yang Upper Limb

(hand meridians)
Yang
Yin Lower Limb
(foot meridians)
In setting up treatment strategy, first determine the sick meridian, then apply the five
systems to select additional meridians to be needled in addition to the sick meridian.7
There are many more advanced systems developed by Dr. Tan. One very simple,
interesting, and highly effective system for point selection when treating internal
disorders is using the lines (or Yao) of each hexagram (or Gong).
Gua Liv Ht Sp LU Kid Pc

Top Yao Liv8 Ht3 Sp9 Lu5 Kid10 Pc3
5th Yao Liv5 Ht4 Sp5 Lu7 Kid7 Pc5
4th Yao Liv4 Ht5 Sp4 Lu8 Kid4 Pc6
3rd Yao Liv3 Ht7 Sp3 Lu9 Kid3 Pc7
2nd Yao Liv2 Ht8 Sp2 Lu10 Kid2 Pc8
1st Yao Liv1 Ht9 Sp1 Lu11 Kid1 Pc9

Gua GB SI St LI UB SJ
Top Yao GB34 SI8 St36 LI11 UB40 SJ10
5th Yao Gb38 SI5 St41 LI5 UB60 SJ6
4th Yao GB40 SI4 St42 LI4 UB64 SJ4
3rd Yao GB41 SI3 St43 LI3 UB65 SJ3
2nd Yao GB43 SI2 St44 LI2 UB66 SJ2
1St Yao GB44 SI1 St45 LI1 UB67 SJ1
Quite simply, Dr. Tan has inserted the five transporting or antique points and yuan-source
points into this chart. The points follow the anatomical flow of the channel. For the yin
channels, as the shu-stream points and Yuan-source points are the same, Luo-connecting
points are plugged in following the anatomical flow of the channel. It is a simple and
effective system for point selection.
This system selects individual points for treatment. When using this system, needling
with a 1-4 combination or 3-6 combination are highly effective. The 2-5 combination is
not effective clinically.
Perhaps treatment involves both the Kidney and Sanjiao channels. When comparing these
two guas, they are similar with the exception of line 3 and 6. Therefore by needling the
points plugged into each line of these guas, each gua becomes the other gua (needle K3
and K10, and SJ 3 and SJ10). The 1-4 combination would not work here, as changing
lines 1 and 4 of the Kidney and Sanjiao guas would not become the other gua. Changing
the first and fourth lines of the Kidney gua manifests the Large Intestine gua. Similarly,
changing the first and fourth line of the Large Intestine gua transforms it into the kidney
gua. Therefore when treating the Large Intestine and Kidney channels, the 1-4
combination is used ( needle LI1 and LI4, and K1 and K4).
Hand channels balance foot channels. Yin channels balance yang channels.
Clinical application of TCM vs. Dr. Tans Balance Method in Internal Syndromes
Asthma
TCM
Asthma can be divided into two types: excess and deficiency. The excess type includes
wind-cold and phlegm-heat. Deficiency type includes lung deficiency and kidney
deficiency.
For wind-cold, needle and moxa BL12 and BL13. This will eliminate wind-cold
and support the lungs. Needle GV14, Lu7 and LI4 to further eliminate the wind
and regulate the lung qi. For phlegm-heat, needle BL13, Dingchuan, CV22, Lu5,
Lu10 and St40. BL13, the back shu point of the lungs, supports lung function. The
extra point, Dingchuan, literally translated as stop wheezing, is used to do just
that. CV22 descends the lung qi. Lu5, the he-sea point on the Lung channel,

transforms phlegm, while Lu10, the ying-spring point, clears heat. St40 clears
phlegm.
For lung deficiency, needle BL13, Lu9, St36 and Sp3. BL13 is the back shu point
of the lung. Lu9 is the source point on the Lung channel. St36 is the he-sea point,
therefore it transforms dampness. It also tonifies qi. Sp3 is the source point of the
Foot Tai yin meridian. Tonifying this point will then tonify the qi of Hand Taiyin.
Some people might consider the possibility of using five element theory here.
St36 and Sp3 are each the earth point on the earth channel. Earth tonifies metal.
Lungs belongs to the metal element.
For kidney deficiency, needle Kid3, BL23, BL13, CV17 and CV6. Kid3 is the
source point on the kidney channel, and BL23 is the back shu point for the
kidney. CV17 is the influential point of qi, and is located in the middle of the
chest. Therefore, it supports the qi, and helps to pacify breathing. CV6, Qihai,
tonifies the qi. These two points needled together help to support the kidney and
regulate breathing.
Balance Method
Start by asking the patient if he or she has trouble with inhalation or exhalation. Then ask
the patient to point to the area where the breath stops. Most people can pinpoint exactly
where the trouble starts.
A common area of trouble for difficulty with inhalation is Kid24 to Kid26 area.
The sick meridian is now identified as the Leg Shaoyin channel. Leg Taiyang
balances Leg Shaoyin, so the foot channels have been chosen. Now to pick the
hand channels, Hand Yangming balances Foot Shaoyin, via system 4, the clock-
opposite. Hand Taiyin balances Hand Yangming via system 3, the interior-
exterior pairs. Furthermore, Hand Taiyin balances with Foot Taiyang via system
2, branching channels, and system 4, clock-opposite.
R L
LI Lu
Kid UB
The yin-yang balancing meridians have been chosen. Using imaging, point selection now
begins:
o Starting with the Kidney meridian as it is the sick channel, palpate Kid9
area for tender spot. Using the foot as the head, Kid9 or Kid7 is the upper
chest area, so, using the same imagery, UB57 and UB58 area is palpated
for tenderness. Similarly, Lu6A and LI7 area are palpated for the tender
spots. Here the image of the head is represented in the hand. Treatment
has been selected.
R L
LI7 Lu6A
Kid 9 or 7 UB57, 58

Using system 2, branching meridians, the channels are:
R L
TB Ht
Kid GB
Using mirror imaging, point selection could look like this:
R L
TB 6, 7, 8 area Ht4A
Kid 7, 8, 9 area GB35 or 36
If however, the patient indicates that the Foot Yangming channel is the sick
channel, the treatment could look very different (Hand Yangming balances Foot
Yangming, and Hand Taiyin balances Foot Taiyin which would balances with
Foot Yangming). If the asthma is more due to phlegm, the channel selection
would look like this:
R L
Lu LI
St Sp
Using mirror imaging, if the patients breathing difficulties are near St18 area,
point selection would look like this:
R L
Lu6 LI7 and/or 8
St40 Sp7A
If phlegm is a large contributing factor, he-sea points on these channels could be

added.
Similarly, if the asthma is stress induced, using system 2 branching channels, the
treatment could look more like this:
R L
Pc LI
St Liv
Needling Jueyin points can reduce stress. In system 2 Jueyin is balanced with
Yangming.
Again, St40 might be a great place to start with point selection, as it is the image
of the chest area (here the foot represents the head). Pc4 or Pc5 might be needled.
LI7 is palpated. Liv5 and Liv6 are palpated for tenderness. The point selection
could look like this:
R L
Pc4 or 5 LI7 and/or 8
St 40 Liv5 and/or 6

Insomnia
TCM
In TCM, there are four primary syndrome differentiations for insomnia. All syndromes
needle Ht7, Sp6, and Anmian. Ht7 is the source point on the Heart channel, Sp6 is the
meeting point of the three Leg Yin channels. This point therefore nourishes yin. Anmian
is an extra point for insomnia. Its name translates to peaceful sleep.
For deficiency of heart and spleen, needle BL20, BL15, and do moxibustion on Sp1.
BL20 is the backshu point for the spleen, and BL15 is the back-shu for the heart.
Moxibustion warms and tonifies the spleen and strengthens the heart. Sp1 is the jing-well
point on the Spleen channel and is also a wood point. In the five element style
acupuncture, wood controls earth, therefore, strengthening the earth channel-the Spleen is
an example of the Ke cycle of control. It would counter act on an out of control wood
element. Wood is the mother of the fire, and the heart belongs to the fire element.
Therefore, burning moxa on this point strengthens the heart.
If the disharmony is between the heart and kidney, needle BL15, BL23, and Kid3. BL23
is the back-shu point for the kidney, and Kid3 is the source point on the Kidney channel.
For upper disturbance of liver fire, needle BL18, BL19 and GB12. BL18 is the back-shu
point for the liver, and BL19 is the back-shu point for the Gall Bladder. GB12 clears the
liver fire from the head.
When treating dysfunction of the stomach causing insomnia food stagnation with
phlegm-heat disturbing Stomach qi, needle BL21 and St36. BL21 is the back-shu point
for the stomach, and St36 is the he-sea point for the Stomach channel.
Balance Method
Insomnia can be caused by different reasons. Particularly chronic insomnia is usually
caused by some degree of emotional distress. Highly effective treatment for this
syndrome is:
R L
TB Pc
Liv GB
Using system 1, Foot Jueyin is balanced with Hand Jueyin, Foot Shaoyang is balanced
with Hand Shaoyang. Further balance is created by using system 3, interior-exterior pairs.
For point selection, as previously discussed, the Gong-Yao lines 3 and 6 or shu-stream
and he-sea points are needled.
R L

TB3, 10 Pc7, 3
Liv3, 8 GB41, 34
Additional possibility exists. If the insomnia is caused by kidney yin fails to nourish the
heart, the treatment could look like this.
R L
TB Ht
Kid GB
This is straightforward system 2, branching channel; Shaoyin is balanced with Shaoyang.

Another possibility exists:
R L
SI Ht
Kid UB
Here Shaoyin is balanced with Taiyang via system 3 internal-external pairs. Deciding
which system to use can be determined by palpation of points or analyzing other
symptoms that may exist (patients seldom present with only one symptomi.e. low
back pain, digestive issues, etc).
In either of these choices, using shu-stream and he-sea points would be highly effective.
This is an example of using the Gong-Yao lines 3 and 6 system.
R L
TB3, 10 Ht7, 3
Kid3, 10 GB41, 34
R L
SI3, 8 Ht7, 3
Kid3, 10 UB65, 40
Mental and emotional disorders i.e. depression, anxiety, neurosis, use Shaoyang, Jueyin,
lines 3-6 (shu-stream, he-sea points) as described previously under insomnia.
Epigastric Pain
TCM
There are three main syndrome differentiations for epigastric pain.
When treating retention of food, needle CV12, Pc6, St36 and Inner Neiting. CV12 is the
front-mu point of the stomach. St36 is the he-sea point of the stomach. Pc6 is a luo-

connecting point, it is also a master and couple point for the Yin Wei Mai and Chong
Mai. Inner Neiting is an extra point which is used empirically to treat food retention.
When treating the attack of the stomach by the liver qi, needle Liv14, CV12, Pc6, St36
and Liv3. Liv14 is the front-mu point of the liver, Liv3 is the source point of the Liver
channel.
When treating deficiency of the stomach with stagnation of the cold, needle CV12, CV6,
BL20, Pc6, St36 and Sp4. Moxibustion is also applicable. CV6 tonifies the qi as its name
indicates. Sp4 and Pc6 are the master and couple points for the Chong Mai and Yin Wei
Mai. They are used to treat stomach disorders.
Balance Method
When using balance method for epigastric pain, several treatment options exist. These
options are also applicable for other digestive disorders.
One must consider the location of the pain and evaluate if the condition is straight
forward digestive condition i.e. weak spleen qi with dampness, or is the liver involved. If
the epigastric pain is located on the Gall Bladder channel, the treatment is different than
if the pain is located on the CV channel. Location of the pain directs the treatment.
Here are some possible treatment examples:
R L
LI Lu
Sp St
The balancing of Taiyin with Yangming is an excellent starting point for any kinds of
digestive concerns. In this treatment, it covers the entire digestive system from the
beginning to the end. Using system 1 Hand and Foot Yangming balance each other as do
Hand and Foot Taiyin. Additionally, using system 3, Spleen and Stomach balance each
other internally and externally, as do the Lung and Large Intestine. Also, this treatment
can be further balanced by using gong-yao system. This combination uses lines 3 and 6.
So the points selected are:
R L
LI3, 11 Lu9, 5
Sp3, 9 St43, 36
Another possibility is:
R L
TB Pc
Sp St

The hand channels are balanced internally and externally using system 3, as are the foot
channels. Triple burner and spleen are opposite on the clocksystem 4. Pericardium and
stomach are also opposite on the clock, and using system 2, the branching system Hand
Jueyin balances Foot Yangming. Another option additionally exists using the gong-yao
system, lines 1 and 4 can be picked. It will look like this:
R L
TB1, 4 Pc9, 6
SP1, 4 St45, 42
Perhaps your patient is not fond of jing-well points being needled. Another point
selection might be:
R L
TB5 Pc6
Sp9 St36
Here, luo points are picked in both hand channels. The nature of a luo point is to
communicate information. St36 and Sp9 are the he-sea points in the foot channels. The
he-sea point can transform dampness and because of their proximity to the middle of the
limb, they treat the middle of the abdomen: the digestive system. Another possibility
might be to only needle he-sea points. It would look like this:
R L
TB10 Pc3
Sp9 St36
Another option is:
R L
LI Pc
Liv St
Here Yangming is balanced with Jueyin via system 2, the branching system. Using the
gong-yao system, lines 1 and 4 are picked. Points needled are:
R L
LI1,4 Pc9, 6
Liv1,4 St45,42
Another option for points could be once again to needle only he-sea points.
R L
LI11 Pc3
Liv8 St36

Another option for more gall bladder digestive problems is:
R L
TB Pc
Liv GB
Here Hand and Foot Jueyin balance each other as well as Hand and Foot Shaoyang. Liver
and gall bladder are internally and externally paired, as are the triple burner and
pericardium.
Points using the gong-yao 3-6 system are:
R L
TB3, 10 Pc7, 3
Liv3,8 GB41, 34
Another point selection using the famous luo-communication points is:
R L
TB5 Pc6
Liv8 GB34
Maybe your patient wakes early before the dawn breaks and has daily diarrhea. The
treatment would be:
R L
LI Pc
Kid St
Kidney is used here due to chronic deficiency, therefore causing this type of diarrhea.
Foot Shaoyin is balanced with Hand Jueyin via system 5, neighbors on the clock. Foot
Shaoyin is balanced with Hand Yangming via system 4, clock opposites. Hand and Foot
Yangming balance each other via system 1, hand Jueyin and Foot Yangming are balanced
through both system 2, branching channels, and system 4, clock-opposites. One further
option existsthe Gong-yao system. Lines 1 and 4 can be used. That treatment looks
like:
R L
LI1, 4 Pc9, 6
Kid1, 4 St45, 42
Fatigue

TCM
This syndrome manifests as fatigue and other symptoms present themselves accordingly.
This condition can be caused either by excess or deficiency. Many possible diagnoses
exist. Lung deficiency syndrome can be either qi deficiency or yin deficiency. Lung
deficiency can be treated by needling Lu9, St36, CV6, and Sp6. Lu9 is the source point of
the Lung channel. St36 and CV6 tonify the qi and support the lungs. Sp6 is the three leg
yin point, it nourishes the yin.
Generally, when the spleen is deficient, treatment is aimed at the qi or the yang. St36,
Sp3, CV12, BL20, BL21 can be needled. Moxa is applicable. St36 tonifies the qi of the
spleen. Sp3 is the source point on the Spleen channel. CV12 is the front-mu point of the
stomach, and therefore tonifies the spleen. BL20 is the back-shu point of the spleen,
BL21 is the back-shu point of the stomach.
The heart can be deficient of qi, yang, blood or yin. Treatment is Ht5 or Ht7, Pc6 or Pc7,
CV14, BL15 and Sp6. Ht5 is the luo point on the Heart channel, Ht7 is the source point
of the heart. Pc6 is the luo point of the Pericardium channel, and Pc7 is the source point
of the Pericardium channel. CV14 is the front-mu point of the heart, and BL15 is the back
shu point of the heart. Sp6, three leg yin, nourishes the yin.
The kidney is usually deficient of yang or yin. Needling Kid3 and Kid7, CV4, Sp6 and
BL23 is helpful. Kid3 is the source point on the Kidney channel. Kid7 is the tonification
point as defined through the five element system. CV4 tonifies the source qi, and BL23 is
the back-shu point of the kidney.
The liver may also be the cause of fatigue if the blood or yin is deficient is deficient.
Liv8, Sp6, St36, BL17 and BL18 can be needled. Liv8 is the he-sea point on the Liver
channel, BL17 is the back-shu point of the blood, BL18 is the back-shu point of the liver.
Excess conditions may also be the root of the fatigue. Dampness or phlegm can be
present, or the liver can disturbed. Sp6, Sp9, St36, St40, CV12, BL20 and CV9 can be
needled to dispel dampness or phlegm. Sp9 is the he-sea point on the Spleen channel,
St40 is the luo point on the Stomach channel, and CV9 is called the water-separating
point. These points also help to dispel dampness and phlegm.
The liver can have stagnant qi, yang rising, fire blazing, or wind blowing. Liv3, Liv8 or
Liv14, Sp6, Pc6 or Pc7, GB34 and GB20 would be appropriate. Liv3 is the source point
of the Liver channel, Liv8 is the he-Sea point, and Liv14 is the front-mu point of the
liver. Pc6 is the luo point of the Pericardium channel, Pc7 is its source point. GB34 is the
he-Sea point of the Gall Bladder channel. GB20 dispels wind.
Balance method
In balance method, usually the more relationships between the selected channels are
desired. In balance method, treatment for excess or deficiency may look similar. For
example, treatment for blood deficiency may resemble a treatment for liver qi constraint.

The possible involved organs may include any of the five yin organs. Based on the organs
or the meridians involved, the five systems are discussed below.
If the heart is involved, here are some treatment possibilities:
R L
Ht SI
BL Kid
Further insight reveals that the Gong-yao 3-6 applies. Therefore, point selection is
simple.
R L
Ht3, 7 SI3, 8
BL65, 40 Kid3, 10
Here Hand and Foot Shaoyin balance each other and the Hand and Foot Taiyang channels
balance them internally and externally paired.
R L
Ht TB
GB Kid
This is straightforward system 2, branching channels, Shaoyin balancing with Shaoyang.

The 3-6, gong-yao system can be used.
R L
Ht3, 7 TB3, 10
GB34, 41 Kid3, 10
R L
Ht SI
St Sp
Hand Shaoyin is balanced with Foot Taiyin through system 5, neighbors on the clock.
The 1-4 Gong-yao system can be used.
R L
Ht1, 4 SI1, 4
St42, 45 Sp1, 4

R L
Ht SI
GB Liv
Here Hand Shaoyin and Hand Taiyang are internally and externally paired as are Foot
Shaoyang and Foot Jueyin. Foot Shaoyang is the opposite-clock of Hand Shaoyin as are
Hand Taiyang and Foot Jueyin. Furthermore, the 3-6 Gong-yao system is applicable.
Therefore, the treatment is:
R L
Ht3, 7 SI3, 8
GB41, 34 Liv3, 8
If the lung is more the problem, several possibilities for treatment exist.
R L
Lu LI
St Sp
Here Hand and Foot Taiyin balance each other, and LI and St channels are internally and
externally paired. The 3-6 Gong-yao system works. Therefore, the points are:
R L
Lu9, 5 LI3, 11
St43, 36 Sp3, 9
This will be also the same treatment if the spleen is deficient (although other treatment do
exist).
R L
Lu LI
GB Liv
Here system 5 clock-neighbors is used. The 1-4 Gong-yao system is applicable.

Therefore, the points are:
R L
Lu11, 8 LI1, 4
GB44, 40 Liv1, 4
Another possibility is the branching system, balancing Taiyang with Taiyin.
R L
Lu SI
UB Sp

The 1-4 Gong-yao system also works here. The points therefore are:
R L
Lu11, 8 SI1, 4
UB67, 64 Sp1, 4

R L
Lu LI
UB Kid
Lu and UB are opposite on the clock, LI and Kid balance internally and externally as
pairs. The 1-4 Gong-yao system works here, too. The points are:
R L
Lu11, 8 LI1, 4
UB67, 64 Kid1, 4
One last possibility exists.
R L
Lu TB
UB Sp
Here Lu and UB are opposite on the clock as are TB and Sp. The 1-4 Gong-yao system is
applicable.
R L
Lu11, 8 TB1, 4
UB67, 64 Sp1, 4
If the liver is the source of the fatigue, the treatment will look like this:
R L
TB Pc
Liv GB
Here the Foot Jueyin channel is balanced with Hand Jueyin, and internally externally
paired with Foot Shaoyang. It can be further balanced with the Triple Burner channel by
using the 3-6 Gong-yao system. The points are:
R L
TB3, 10 Pc7, 3
Liv3, 8 GB41, 34

Another possible treatment is:
R L
LI Pc
Liv St
Here Jueyin is balanced with Yangming through system 2, branching channels. The 1-4
Gong-yao system is applicable. The point selection is:
R L
LI1, 4 Pc9, 6
Liv1, 4 St45, 42
Other combinations for the liver have been previously discussed.
If the spleen is the focus of the treatment, some possibilities have been discussed
previously. A few more options remain.
R L
TB Lu
Sp GB
Here Foot Taiyin is balanced with Hand Taiyain, and is opposite the clock from Hand
Taiyang, which is balanced with Foot Shaoyang. The 1-4 Gong-yao system applies.
R L
TB1, 4 Lu11, 8
Sp1, 4 GB44, 40
R L
TB Pc
Sp St
Here Foot Taiyin is balanced with Foot Yangming internally and externally, and is
opposite the clock from Hand Shaoyang, which is balanced with Hand Jueyin internally
and externally. Hand Jueyin is also opposite-clock of Foot Yangming. The 1-4 Gong-yao
system is applicable. The treatment looks like this:
R L
TB1, 4 Pc9, 6
Sp1, 4 St45, 42
R L

TB Ht
Sp GB
Here Foot Taiyin is balanced with Hand Shaoyin, via system 5, clock neighbors. Foot
Taiyin is opposite the clock from Hand Shaoyang as are Hand Shaoyin and Foot
Shaoyang. Choosing yuan-source points might be helpful, or he-sea points to drain
dampness.
R L
TB4, 10 Ht7, 3
Sp3, 9 GB40, 34
One more possibility exists:
R L
LI Ht
Sp St
Here Foot Taiyin is balanced with Hand Shaoyin via system 5, clock neighbors. Foot
Yangming is balanced internally and externally with Foot Taiyin, and with Hand
Yangming via system 1. The 3-6 Gong-yao system applies. The treatment looks like this:
R L
LI3, 11 Ht7, 3
Sp3, 9 St43, 36
The kidney might need a boost. Some treatment options have been discussed previously.
A few options remain:
R L
LI Ht
Kid GB
Here Foot Shaoyin is balanced with Hand Shaoyin, Hand Yangming balances via system
4, clock opposite. Foot Shaoyang and Hand Shaoyin are opposite the clock as well. The
3-6 Gong-yao system is applicable.
R L
LI3, 11 Ht7, 3
Kid3, 10 GB40, 34
Another option is:
R L
TB Pc
Kid BL

Foot Shaoyin and Hand Jueyin are neighbors on the clock. Bladder is internally and
externally related to Foot Shaoyin, as are the Triple Burner and Pericardium channels.
Additionally Hand Shaoyang balances with Foot Shaoyin via system 2. The 3-6 Gong-
yao system is applicable. Treatment looks like this:
R L
TB3, 10 Pc7, 3
Kid3, 10 BL 65, 40
One last possibility remains.
R L
TB Pc
Kid St
Foot Shaoyin is neighbor on the clock with Hand Jueyin. Hand Shaoyang balances Foot
Shaoyin via system 2. Foot Yangming balances Hand Jueyin also through system 2.
Yuan-source and he-sea points might be the points of choice.
R L
TB4, 10 Pc7, 3
Kid3, 10 St42, 36
Dysmenorrhea
TCM
Dysmenorrhea can be caused by excess or deficiency. Excess condition can be caused by
stagnation of qi and blood, stagnation of cold, or damp-heat.
To treat stagnation of qi and blood, needle Liv3, Sp4, Pc6, Sp8, Sp10, and St29. Liv3 is
the source point of the Liver channel. Sp4 and Pc6 open the Penetrating vessel and
regulates the blood in the uterus. Sp8 is the xi-cleft point on the Spleen channel, and Sp10
moves the blood. St29 is a local point that helps to regulates the blood in the uterus. For
stagnation of cold, moxa is required. Needle and moxa CV4, CV6, St36. Needle St29 and
Sp6. CV4 and CV6 tonify the qi, and, due to their location on the lower abdomen, dispels
the cold when warmed with moxa. For damp-heat, needle Sp9, Sp6, Lu7, Kid6, CV3,
St28 and BL32. Sp9 is the he-Sea point of the Spleen channel, Sp6, Three Leg Yin,
moves the blood. Lu7 and Kid6 open the CV channel. CV3 and St28 resolve dampness
from the uterus as does BL32.
If deficiency is causing the fatigue, its root can be either qi and blood deficiency or
kidney and liver yin deficiency. Needle Sp6, St36, CV4, and CV6. These points nourish
and tonify qi and blood. BL23 and BL18 may be added to the protocol if necessary.

Balance Method
Dysmenorrhea is a pain in the abdomen or lower back associated with a womans
menstrual cycle. As with all pain syndromes, the affected meridian needs to be identified
and treated. Most women can locate the pain precisely and accurately. The channels
involved include Ren Mai, Chong Mai, Liver, Gall Bladder, Kidney, Stomach, Spleen
and Bladder. Many of the possible treatments have been discussed previously. Use of
extraordinary channels has not yet been discussed. Here are some possible extraordinary
channel treatments.
R L
TB5 Lu7
Sp4 GB41
Hand and Foot Taiyang balance each other. They are also the master points for the Ren
and Chong Mai. Hand Shaoyang and Foot Shaoyang balance each other. They are also
the master points for the Dai Mai and Yang Wei Mai. Triple burner is opposite the clock
from the spleen.
R L
Pc6 TB5
GB41 Kid6
Hand and Foot Shaoyang balance each other. PC and TB balance each other internally
and externally, while PC and KID are neighbors on the clock. Also, Hand Shaoyang
balances with Foot Shaoyin through system 2.
R L
Lu7 SI 3
BL62 Sp4
This is system 2-branching channels; Taiyang balances Taiyin.
R L
Lu7 SI3
BL62 Kid6
In this treatment, all channels balance with Foot Taiyang. Kid6 balances internally and
externally. Hand Taiyang balances with Foot Taiyang, and lung is opposite the clock.
Conclusion

As discussed above, there are quite a few similarities between traditional acupuncture and
Tans style of acupuncture. The differences among them are also distinct. Summary is
made as below:
Both styles of acupuncture use yin-yang theory, meridian theory, and Zang-Fu theory.
Both styles use methods of selection of acupoints in the front and in the back of the body.
Both styles use acupoints in the upper and lower body, the left and the right of the body,
interior and exterior related points, and yuan-source and luo points. The frequency of
treatment in both styles of acupuncture is similar.
The differences between these two styles are also obvious. When applying Zang-Fu
theory in traditional acupuncture, eight principles are also applied. Tan uses the Bagua
theory in his system, which is not commonly used in traditional acupuncture. With the
exception of system 3internally-externally related pairsTans other four systems are
very unique. When treating internal organ diseases, Tans yin-yang balance method is
applied, which is not used in the same in traditional acupuncture. When selecting
acupoints, Tan uses image to help select acupoints (this explains why many empirical
points in traditional acupuncture work), and he never uses local acupoints. Traditional
acupuncture use the five shu-trasnport points, the luo-connecting points, the xi-cleft
points, the shu-mu points, the eight confluent points and also local points. During the
treatment, Tan uses twisting and thrusting techniques to obtain the qi while massaging the
patients. In traditional acupuncture, there are tonifying and reducing techniques.
Retaining of needles in Tans style acupuncture is generally longer than in traditional
acupuncture. Dr. Tan has patients move the affected area frequently during the treatment.
It is very difficult to compare the efficacy and effectiveness of these two styles
acupuncture or to make a conclusion on what condition to use which style of
acupuncture. In order to answer that question, it will require high quality research to
prove it. However, by interviewing different practitioners, some personal clinical
experience can be helpful in clinical practice. Among the five practitioners being
interviewed, all of them studied both TCM acupuncture and Dr. Tans acupuncture. Four
of them use Dr. Tans method more often. Four of them combine TCM acupuncture,
Tans acupuncture and other styles of acupuncture to treat diseases. Among these
practitioners, treatments are diverse. No one particular treatment pattern choice appears.
Treatment options and choices seem to excite balance method practitioners. For the for
the balance method novice, these choices can seem frustrating. Each practitioner
recommends practicing the balance method. Please see appendix for the interviews.

Appendix:
The format for the interviews includes the practitioners educational background and
clinical experience. These questions are asked:
1. What style of acupuncture do you practice? How long?
2. Do you use different style of acupuncture for different conditions?
3. Which system in the balance method do you use the most? Why?
4. Additional comments?
Zina Hurley, L.Ac. Graduated from OCOM in 1993 with Masters degree in acupuncture
and oriental medicine.
1. She has studied with Dr. Tan since 1995. She practices the balance method since then.
2. She practiced traditional Chinese medicine for 2 years and got good results. After she
studied the balance method, she likes the clear theory and view of the natural world. So
she practices the balance method exclusively now.
3. It is a complicated question as for which system she most frequently uses. She uses all
systems frequently including the systems not discussed in this paper, when facing new
treatment challenge, she starts with system 1 and runs through each system (via palpation
techniques) until she finds the solution.
Nikki Medghalchy, L.Ac. Graduated from OCOM in 1999 with master degree in
acupuncture and oriental medicine.
1. She learned Dr. Tans style of acupuncture in 1998. She has been using both traditional
acupuncture and the balance method for 8 years. She has also uses Zhus scalp
acupuncture for 8 years, and divergent channel therapy for 5 years. She has been using
Japanese acupuncture for 2 years, Korea hand acupuncture for 1 year, and five-element
acupuncture for 1 year.
2. She usually combines 2 or 3 methods mentioned previously when she treats patients.
For pain syndrome, she likes to combine Tans acupuncture with Zhus scalp
acupuncture. For internal organs diseases such as digestive problems, she likes to
combine traditional acupuncture with Tans acupuncture and Zhus scalp acupuncture.
For emotional problems, she likes to use five element acupuncture, for auto-immune
problems, she likes to use Japanese acupuncture.
3. When practicing Tans acupuncture, she uses system 4, the clock opposite, most often.
If the patients are not getting better in 10 minutes, she will run through the other 4
systems using the imaging system until she finds the most tender spots. She will use that
system and needle the points she picked. She does not use the Bagua balance method to
pick the points.
Cole Magbanua, L.Ac. graduated from OCOM in 1997 with master degree in

1. He uses traditional channel theory combing with imaging system. He also uses Tans
balance method. He usually likes to combine traditional Chinese acupuncture, Tans
balance method, Master Tungs method and his own balance method to treat patients.
2. He often combines all the methods mentioned above to treat different conditions.
Sometimes he only uses traditional acupuncture with imaging system for pain. For
example, TMJ pain in GB2 area, he may still select GB channel to treat the problem by
applying the imaging system, he may needle the tender point between GB33 and GB34
on the same side of the body to see if it can get ride of the pain. If not, he may add Tans
system 4, the clock-opposite, or system 1, the name pair. He does not use Tans Bagua
balance method to select the acupoints. Another example, fatigue, for which there is no
clear location, he will then make TCM Zang-Fu syndrome diagnoses according to Zang-
Fu theory, because Zang-Fu organs are connected with channels and collaterals, so the
sick meridians can be selected. He will chose acupoints according to yuan-source points
or according to the imaging system and the sick organs.
3. For pain syndromes, he likes to use traditional channel theory with imaging systems,
which means he may select the channel that runs through the painful area, then select the
acupoints by applying the imaging system. For limb pain, he likes to add Tans system 1,
name pair. For torsal pain, he likes to add Tans system 4, clock-opposite.
For internal organs diseases, besides the three methods mentioned above, he also likes to
add the common system used by both traditional acupuncture and Dr. Taninternal and
external relation.
John Blank, L.Ac. graduated from OCOM in 1991 with master degree of acupuncture and
oriental medicine.
1. He uses Dr. Tans style of acupuncture most of time for the last 10 years. He still
occasionally uses TCM acupuncture. He also uses ear acupuncture, Master Tungs
acupuncture for 4 years, and Zhus scalp acupuncture for 17 years.
2. He uses Dr. Tans acupuncture for musculoskeletal conditions as well as internal
organs diseases. He uses scalp acupuncture for stroke patients, ear acupuncture for drug
and alcohol dependency. He uses TCM acupuncture when he cannot figure out what to
do. He uses Master Tungs acupuncture for gynecological conditions.
3. He uses all the five systems in the balance methods, because they work equally well.
He said he knows which system to use due to his clinical experience.
Genevieve Allen, L.Ac. graduated from OCOM in 1999 with masters degree of
1. She primarily practices Dr. Tans method for 7 years. She also practices TCM
acupuncture and Zhus acupuncture for 7 years.
2. She uses TCM acupuncture for womens issues and asthma. She uses Micro-
stimulation by Hara palpation for digestive disorders, then she uses Tans method
afterwards for the digestive disorders. She also uses Dr. Tans acupuncture for pain
syndrome. She uses Zhus scalp acupuncture for central nerve system conditions.
3. She uses all the systems in the balance methods. She thinks they work equally well.

4. When she practices Tans method on her patients, her patients noticed immediate
change within the first few minutes. She likes the instant response. That is why she uses
Tans method most of the time.

References:
1
Deng Liangyue, Gan Yijun, He Shuhui, et. al., Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion
(Revised Edition), Foreign Languages Press, Beijing, 1999, p.12
2
3
4
5
6
Tan, Richard Teh-Fu, Dr. Tans Strategy of Twelve Magical Points. Richard Tan,
OMD, LAc, San Diego, CA, 2003. pp. 35-36
7
Tan, Richard Teh-Fu, Dr. Tans Strategy of Twelve Magical Points. Richard Tan,
OMD, LAc, San Diego, CA, 2003. p. 38
Bibliography:
1. Deng Liangyue, Gan Yijun, He Shuhui, et. al.,Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion
(Revised Edition), Foreign Languages Press, Beijing, 1999.
2. Dan Bensky, John OConnor; editors and translater, Acupuncture: A Comprehensive
Text, Shanghai College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Eastland Press, Seattle, 1981.
3. Giovanni Maciocia, The Practice of Chinese Medicine, Churchill Livingstone
Inc,1994.
4. Zhang, Boyu, et. al. Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai
Scientific and Technology Publisher,1985.
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OMD, LAc, San Diego, CA, 2003.
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<http://www.drtanshow.com>

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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Dr. Richard Tans Balance Method

A comparison of theory and clinical application

Yan Lu, LAc

An OCOM Doctoral Program Capstone Project 2007

Dr. Richard Tans Balance Method

A comparison of theory and clinical application

Yan Lu, LAc

An OCOM Doctoral Program Capstone Project 2007

Traditional acupuncture is the root of different styles of acupuncture, it is taught in TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine, here after referred to as TCM, is based on theory

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Meridian syndrome differentiation is used in order to determine which meridian is best

Methods of Selecting Acupuncture Points for TCM Treatment

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Methods of manipulating the needles

Manipulation refers to certain needling techniques used to achieve desired results.

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Dr. Richard Tans Balance method

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Five basic systems

2. System 2 consists of bie-jing or branching channels. In this system, hand

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Refer to diagram on page 10.

3. System 3 consists of biao-li or exterior/interior pairs. This system pairs hand

4. System 4 consists of Chinese clock opposites. Important treatment

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Spleen and Heart

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Phantom limb pain

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Balance Method Approach to Internal Syndromes

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Yin Yang Upper Limb

Gua Liv Ht Sp LU Kid Pc

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Using mirror imaging, point selection could look like this:

If phlegm is a large contributing factor, he-sea points on these channels could be

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This is straightforward system 2, branching channel; Shaoyin is balanced with Shaoyang.

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Here are some possible treatment examples:

Another possibility is:

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Another option is:

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Points using the gong-yao 3-6 system are:

Another point selection using the famous luo-communication points is: