LAUSR

Location of traditional acupuncture points has historically been based on surface anatomical landmarks. In recent years, Western medical education has utilised X-rays1 and CT2 of cadavers to enable students to better comprehend human anatomy, with positive responses. In a previous study, we explored the potential use of ultrasonography for the location of anatomical points.3 The aim of the present study was to use X-rays to examine the relationship between acupuncture needles and bony structures and to consider the addition of bony landmarks as a means to locate acupuncture points. This study was conducted on a human cadaveric hand. A 25×40 mm disposable stainless steel acupuncture needle was inserted at PC8 ( Laogong ), SI3 ( Houxi ) and TE4 ( Yangchi ), based on an acupuncture text.4 PC8 is situated within the interosseous muscle space between the second and third metacarpal bones, next to the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ). After making a loose fist, SI3 is found proximal to the fifth MCPJ, at the end of the transverse crease of the hypothenar muscle, on the …