The rapid effect acupuncture technique with double needles is a new acupuncture method developed since 1972, based on the single-needle technique practiced by teachers and students, and inspired by techniques such as plum blossom needle, ear acupuncture, and scalp acupuncture. Its mechanism of action is fundamentally similar to that of ordinary acupuncture therapy; on one hand, it enhances the body’s defense mechanisms, and on the other hand, it has an “adjusting” effect on the nervous system.
Finger Strength Training Method
The method of inserting needles in the rapid effect acupuncture technique with double needles is unique and requires skilled needle technique and strong finger strength. It is essential that the finger strength of both hands is equal; otherwise, the insertion will not proceed smoothly. Sometimes, when holding two needles, insufficient finger strength may prevent the needles from being inserted, or only one needle may be inserted while the other bends, causing pain to the patient. Therefore, developing strong finger strength is crucial for smooth and rapid needle insertion. Training must be persistent, and practice can be done while walking, sitting, or lying down.
Specific training methods for finger strength:
1. Hold a four-inch long fine needle (starting with a size 28 needle, gradually changing to sizes 30 and 31) between the thumb and index finger of both hands, pushing from both ends towards the center, squeezing as tightly as possible, then pulling back to the ends, repeating this process (see Figure 1-1).
2. After a certain period of practice, test the finger strength of both hands. One hand holds the needle tip, while the other holds the needle base. After squeezing tightly, simultaneously push towards the center; whichever thumb or index finger slides towards the center faster indicates weaker finger strength, requiring further practice. When both thumbs and index fingers reach the center simultaneously, it indicates equal finger strength. If both cannot move simultaneously, it indicates strong finger strength.
3. First practice needle insertion on clothing, bedding, or pillows, then practice on oneself. Only when one can insert needles smoothly on oneself can treatment on patients begin.
Needle Insertion Techniques
First, one must master the single-needle insertion technique with one hand before implementing the double-needle technique with both hands. After becoming proficient, one can then apply the double-needle technique with two or more needles.
1. Double Needle Insertion Technique with One Needle per Hand
Hold the needle with the thumb, index, and middle fingers, exposing the needle tip by about 1 cm. Disinfect the skin at the insertion site and surrounding area with an alcohol swab, and use the middle finger to apply pressure on the acupoint to distract the patient. Then, quickly insert the needle into the skin; most patients will not feel pain, or only a slight discomfort. Once the needle enters the skin, support it with the middle finger while the thumb and index fingers quickly push the needle to the desired depth (see Figures 1-2 and 1-3).
2. Double Needle Insertion Technique with Two Needles
This technique is similar to the double needle technique with one needle per hand, except that when holding the needles, the distance between the two needles should be about 2 cm apart; they must not be too close together, as this would affect the intensity and effectiveness of the stimulation (see Figure 1-4).
3. Three Types of Double Needle Rapid Effect Techniques
(1) Double Needle Insertion Technique with One Needle per Hand: Insert one needle into two acupoints on one side or both sides of the patient simultaneously (see Figure 1-5).
(2) Double Needle Insertion Technique with Two Needles: Insert two needles into two acupoints on one side or both sides of the patient simultaneously (see Figure 1-6).
(3) Three Needle Insertion Technique: One hand holds two needles, while the other hand holds one needle, simultaneously inserting three needles into two acupoints either vertically or horizontally (see Figure 1-7).
2. Comprehensive Needle Manipulation Method
This method originates from the general acupuncture technique of even tonification and sedation, but the methods vary, and its effects surpass those of even tonification and sedation. After inserting one or two needles into two acupoints simultaneously, the thumbs and index fingers of both hands hold one needle each, while the middle and ring fingers alternately touch the exposed needle shafts, coordinating twisting and lifting movements. Then, switch to the other needle at the same acupoint and apply the same method. This technique is often used for general internal diseases, lumbar and leg pain, various neuralgias, hemiplegia, infantile paralysis, prolapse of the rectum, and bi syndrome (see Figure 1-9).
3. In-and-Out Needle Manipulation Method
This method is equivalent to the tonification method of single needle acupuncture. Each hand holds one needle at the acupoint, with the left hand twisting and inserting while the right hand twists and withdrawing, slowly in a sawing motion. This can be repeated several times. This method is suitable for various pain conditions in patients with a weak constitution (see Figure 1-10).
Indications
The rapid effect acupuncture technique with double needles employs a muscle injection-like insertion method. Although 2 to 4 needles are inserted simultaneously, patients do not experience pain, making it acceptable even for those who are most afraid of needles.
It is primarily suitable for various acute pains and certain chronic diseases, such as trigeminal neuralgia, sciatica, and various neurological and psychiatric disorders, as well as hemiplegia, poliomyelitis, prolapse of the rectum, and bi syndrome. It is also applicable to various diseases treated with ordinary acupuncture.
Precautions
Due to the high intensity of stimulation in the rapid effect acupuncture technique with double needles, the patient’s bodily response can be strong, so it is essential to arrange the patient’s bed properly.
1. When performing double needle insertion at Zusanli (ST36) or Neiguan (PC6), if the needles are accurately placed at the acupoints, the patient may experience involuntary strong contractions, which can easily lead to bent or broken needles; therefore, vigilance is necessary.
2. The depth of insertion should be similar to that of ordinary acupuncture. For patients with a weak constitution, special attention should be paid to the angle and depth of insertion in the chest and back, especially in the chest area, where it is best to avoid using double needles. For patients with bronchitis, double needles can be used at the Zhongfu (LU1) and other upper and lower acupoints, preferably with a horizontal insertion. When needling Dazhui (GV14), Fengmen (BL12), and Feishu (BL13), deep insertion with double needles is not advisable, as most patients with chronic respiratory diseases are relatively frail, so caution is required.
3. The rapid needle insertion technique is generally painless, so fainting due to needle insertion is rare. The author has used this method for over 20 years without encountering a single case of fainting. If fainting does occur, it should be managed using the standard methods for fainting caused by acupuncture.
4. If bleeding occurs after needle removal, applying pressure with a cotton ball will suffice to stop the bleeding. Beginners should use the single needle technique for eye acupoints instead of the double needle technique, and those who are not proficient should avoid this method.
5. The interval between treatment sessions is generally 1 to 3 days, with a maximum of 5 to 7 days for some cases. The time between sessions should not be too long to avoid affecting efficacy. Generally, 6 sessions constitute a treatment course, with a one-day break before starting the second course. The various diseases described in this book have shown good results with double needle treatment. If there is no significant effect after following the methods and treatment courses described by the author, other methods may be considered.
6. Double needle treatment generally involves selecting two sets of acupoints simultaneously. First, one set is needled, and after leaving the needles in and performing the necessary techniques, the needles are removed, followed immediately by needling the second set. In some cases, three sets of acupoints may be used. This method is performed sequentially, with needle retention times typically ranging from 10 to 40 minutes. During the retention period, attention should be paid to needle manipulation, generally requiring 2 to 4 manipulations, with some needing 4 to 6. Depending on the condition, it is generally advisable to retain needles for chronic diseases; for acute conditions, such as various neuralgias, the needles can be removed after applying specific techniques to relieve pain, and if pain persists after removal, needling can continue.
Note:All acupuncture methods mentioned in this text are for reference and learning by professional TCM practitioners only, not to be used as prescriptions. Please do not attempt these methods blindly; this platform does not assume any responsibility for any consequences arising from such attempts!
