Micro-system Theory & Acupuncture

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The Holographic theory depicts the fundamental principle that is reflected in the Universe as illustrated in one of the most important books in  Ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine, "Huang Di Nei Jing". Chinese Medicine has observed the Universe and has studied the influence of the Cosmos in the human body and how the body reacts or adapts to environmental changes.  The principle is based on the mutual interaction and interconnection of the Universe representing the macrocosm and the human body representing the microcosm all performed under the core pillar of Qi transformation or "Qi Hua (气化) "

Oriental philosophy believes there is a correspondence of each part of the body to the whole. This relationship exists between the Universe and man, between organs systems and organs, between organs and cells and beyond. Therefore it can be concluded that if one part of the body is under functioning it will affect the whole body and if each part of the body functions optimally the whole body will be in balance. 

A diversity of systems have born out of the micro-system theory such as Auricular Acupuncture, Scalp Acupuncture, Abdominal Acupuncture, Hand Acupuncture, to name a few. 

Ralph Alan Dale was one of the first researchers that suggested that auricular acupuncture was not the only micro-system in our body. To the contrary, the concept could be applied and extended to many more systems that also provided both diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Micro acupuncture reflects all the vital Qi in the body in a particular anatomical area. This microcosm is expressed via micro-acupoints and micro-channels that are represented in a particular landscape. Dr Ying Qing Zhang and colleagues from Shandong University in China published several books and articles proposing a theory called ECIWO (Embryo Containing the Information of the Whole Organism). This system born in 1973 states that the whole body is represented in each anatomical body part. Zhang detailed micro-acupuncture systems for every long bone in the body giving more focus to the second metacarpal bone of the hand. He identified 12 regions: head, neck, arm, lungs and heart, liver, stomach, intestintes, kidney, upper abdomen, lower abdomen, leg and foot.  

How do we use the Second Metacarpal Microsystem?
There are different ways to utilize this system.
  • The approach recommended to patients is to massage along and against the second metacarpal bone and find the tender spots. Stay massaging those points while breathing deeply for a minute or when the tenderness diminishes. Upon palpation the area will be softer and less sore.
  • Use a pointer or an object with a round point and find the tender points. The map can be used as guide to observe which organs are reflected in the tender points. Repeat the steps above by breathing and releasing the tension in those points and re check upon palpation.
  • Once tender points are identified magnets can be used to stimulate the points. (check with your Acupuncture Physician how to use them).
  • For broader areas utilize a tennis ball or sphere whether stone, crystal or wood can be utilized to self massage until the tenderness subsides.
  • Acupuncture treatment is very effective, few needles are utilized and a complete balancing is obtained.
  • Moxa or guasha will cover general areas instead of specific points unless utilizing stick on moxa or moxa on a needle. These techniques can be utilized for pain and stagnation. Many other therapies can be utilized, you can ask for further details if interested.

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Written by: Maria Laura Rainer, AP
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