Distinct Neuroanatomical Structures of Acupoints Kidney 1 to Kidney 8: A Cadaveric Study

Abstract

Objective: The Systematic Classic/Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (ZJJYJ,) is considered to be the first complete acupuncture manual to detail the location and meridian assignations of 349 acupuncture points. Despite numerous transcriptions and editing changes, many traditional acupuncturists adhere to the classics and rarely question their validity. However, ushering the use of acupuncture into the modern era requires examining acupuncture point locations objectively by comparing contemporary anatomical knowledge with classical texts. The aim of this research was to examine distinct neuroanatomical targets associated with acupuncture points to: (1) standardize the precise neuroanatomical target of each acupuncture point; and (2) crossreference neuroanatomical targets with classical point locations. This was done to demonstrate ancient authors' intentions when describing acupuncture points as coordinates used to stimulate the peripheral nervous system. Materials and Methods: The unique neuroanatomical targets associated with acupuncture points on the Foot Shao Yin Kidney meridian were defined. Specifically, KI 1 through KI 8 were examined by comparing classical point locations from the ZJJYJ with modern standardized textbook locations from Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, current anatomical literature, the current authors' cadaver dissection research, and electrostimulation of acupuncture points in healthy volunteers. Results: KI 1-KI 8 correlated with motor entry points as well as with nerve branches and vessels derived from the posterior tibial neurovascular bundle. Conclusions: This research demonstrated a procedure to verify and standardize the distinct neuroanatomical structures of acupuncture points. Standardization of neuroanatomical targets of acupuncture points will enable researchers and clinicians to obtain reproducible results in clinical treatments and research protocols.

Anatomical Exploration of the KI1 Acupoint: Implications for Medial and Lateral Plantar Nerve Stimulation

“…These anatomical findings support that KI1 acupuncture can directly stimulate the medial plantar nerve, as well as the deep fasciae of these muscles innervated by the plantar nerve [17]. KI1 acupuncture can also stimulate the lateral plantar nerve that innervates the adductor hallucis in the 3rd layer of the plantar foot [18] [Figure 2B1,B2]. However, moxibustion at the KI1 acupoint may primarily stimulate the medial plantar nerve located in the superficial layers of the plantar foot.…”

Optimal acupuncture protocol improving symptoms of typical dry eye syndrome: meta-analysis and systematic review

“…However, the other five periocular acupoints with the negative effects on both BUT and STT showed correlations with the different trigeminal nerve branches: ‘BL2’ and ‘TE23’ target the supratrochlear n. From the frontal n. And the lacrimal n., respectively, in V1; ‘EX-HN5 and GB1’ target the zygomatic n. In V2; ‘ST1’ targets the medial branch of the inferior palpebral n. From the infraorbital n. In V2. In the distant SAPs, ‘LI4’ is covered by the superficial branch of the radial n. [ 61 ], while ‘KI3 and SP6’ and ‘ST36’ are correlated with the posterior tibial n. And the deep peroneal n., respectively [ 62 , 63 ].

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Impact of integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique versus electro-acupuncture stimulation of posterior tibial nerve in males with chronic pelvic pain of myofascial origin

“…The tibial nerve supplies the whole foot plantar sensation. The tibial nerve ramification occurs inside tarsal tunnel, behind the medial malleolus (Lee et al, 2019).…”