TCM Acupuncture Theory - Shokanten Points and the Nine Continent Pulses

Acupuncture Points Theory

Traditional Chinese Medicine utilizes a number of theories which group acupuncture points together based on their functions and/or other relationships. Many of these theories are important in a clinical setting and are used, along with other theory and diagnostic information, to decide which acupuncture points will be used for a given condition.

Below you find information regarding the shokanten points and the nine continent pulses. See our Acupuncture Point Categories section for a complete list of point categories.

For complete information about a single point, click on it within the chart.

Shokanten Points & the Nine Continent Pulses Theory and Applications

  • The Nine Continent Pulses may be used when the when the pulse via the radial artery offers inconclusive information.
  • The pulses are also used to aid in the comparative analysis of meridians in the upper and lower portions of the body.
  • The Shokanten points are often used to treat conditions arising from a psycho-emotional background. For example, the use of KD 12 when fear is an associated aspect of a child's bedwetting issues.

Shokanten Points & the Nine Continent Pulses Chart

Pulse Location

Division

Shokanten

Effected Area
Upper Tai Yang Tai Yang KD 12 Sides of the Head
Middle TH 21 Shao Yang ST 25/KD 21 Eyes & Ears
Lower ST 2 Yang Ming ST 27 Mouth & Teeth
Upper LU 9 Tai Yin LV 13 Lungs
Middle HT 7 Shao Yin KD 16 Heart
Lower LI 4 Jue Yin LV 14/KD 19 Chest
Upper LV 3 Tai Yin LV 13 Liver
Middle ST 42 Shao Yin KD 16 Spleen

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