The clinic adopts the Hokushinkai method (which is based on the principle of bian zheng lun zhi [pattern identification and treatment based on an overall analysis of the patient’s symptoms/signs and condition]) and uses a very small number of needles. The cause of the disease is analyzed by understanding when and how the current symptoms started, the changes in the symptoms since their commencement, and the medical history of the patient. To do this, the patient is first interviewed (based on the patient’s card, such as regarding changes in the symptoms since their commencement, medical history, questions regarding sleep, questions regarding eating and drinking, and questions regarding bodily wastes). Then, the body surface (the condition of acupoints and skin) is examined in various ways, primarily by palpation: examinations of the tongue, complexion, abdomen, pulse, source points (the major acupoint on each of the 12 meridians), and back transport points. Based on the results of the body surface observation, the reason for the manifestation of the current symptoms is determined. This is very important because, for example, various things can cause a headache, and it varies from person to person. In addition, each person responds differently to an acupoint test, although there are some set patterns (e.g. the responses in people with liver problems are similar). It is certain that various clinical conditions inside the body are manifested on the body surface (skin, acupoint, etc.). As practitioners, we must collect both subjective and objective information from the patient. In particular, it is very important to listen to the patient carefully; even a minor symptom, which may be overlooked in Western medicine, could be an important piece of information in diagnosing the disease. The aforementioned information is comprehensively analyzed to find the “strain” that caused the symptom, identify the disease pattern (i.e. determine the most appropriate description of the current condition in terms of Chinese medicine), and draw up a treatment plan. Then treatment using a small number of needles is provided to rebalance the body. Oriental medicine considers the human being as a microcosm of the universe, logically analyzes the strain, and relieves it by rebalancing the whole entity. Although intuition plays a role, the ideas are never based on spiritual or other unaccountable thoughts. Any person can understand this rational method.
The clinic does not use electric pulse treatment or massage. The strain (disharmony in the body) is determined, and then the qi (the energy source that flows through the body) and blood are rebalanced (see, About Oriental Medicine) using needles and moxa. There are many types of needles and moxa, and the clinic uses those shown below. The most appropriate types of needles and moxa are selected for each patient.
These Japanese-made, disposable needles are available in various lengths and thicknesses. The most appropriate type of needle is determined based on the constitution and clinical condition of the patient.
There are two types, gold and silver. These needles are not inserted into the body but are lightly placed on acupoints. Children are mainly treated by using these needles, so there is no pain at all.
This technique was used by the Mubun-ryu school and became common in the Edo era (17th century). The tip of the stick is placed on the skin, and the wooden hammer is used to lightly hit the head of the stick. Again, nothing is inserted, so there is no pain at all.
