Selected Case Studies of Moving Qi Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the origin, theoretical foundation, operational principles, and clinical efficacy of Dong's "Moving Qi" acupuncture technique in pain management. Rooted in the classical theory that "where Qi flows smoothly, there is no pain," this method integrates the principles of meridian regulation, dynamic balance of Yin and Yang, and neuromuscular coordination. The technique involves inserting needles at distant or contralateral acupoints while guiding the patient to actively move or gently massage the affected area. This process enhances Qi circulation and blood flow, promotes neuromuscular activation, and facilitates the body's self-regulation mechanisms. Drawing upon both ancient medical texts such as Lingshu·Guanzhen and modern research on acupuncture analgesia, this study elucidates how movement synergizes with needling stimulation to produce dual effects on sensory and motor pathways. By activating motor output, movement suppresses excessive nociceptive input and enhances the brain's endogenous pain control system, thus amplifying acupuncture's therapeutic impact. Clinical observations demonstrate that Moving Qi acupuncture achieves rapid and sustained pain relief in conditions such as cervical spondylosis, shoulder periarthritis, lumbar disc herniation, knee osteoarthritis, and ankle sprain. Through detailed case analyses, the paper highlights the technique's operational features, including point selection, manipulation methods, and movement coordination strategies, offering insights into its integration with modern rehabilitation and pain medicine. Dong's Moving Qi acupuncture represents a unique synthesis of traditional meridian theory and modern physiological mechanisms, providing a valuable model for the future development of dynamic acupuncture therapies.