Anatomy for the Acupuncturist - Facts & Fiction: 3: Upper & Lower Extremity

Abstract

Anatomy knowledge, and the skill to apply it, is arguably the most important facet of safe and competent acupuncture practice. The authors believe that an acupuncturist should always know where the tip of their needle lies with respect to the relevant anatomy so that vital structures can be avoided and so that the intended target for stimulation can be reached. This article describes the anatomy of the upper limb and shoulder girdle, and lower limb and pelvis, relevant to safe needling practice.