1. Look For Landmarks
Most acupuncture points have fixed locations based on anatomical landmarks. The body can be measured with a measuring system based on our unique proportions, known as the anatomical inch. Each person has an anatomical inch that is unique to that person, and is based on the width of the pad of the thumb. Each body part has the same measurement from person to person. For example, the length of the collarbone will always be 8 anatomical inches, or cun, in the Chinese system, by definition. This means that you can always divide the length of every collarbone into eight equal segments, which then be used to locate the points along the collarbone. Another example, Stomach 36, one of the most commonly used points, is located 3 cun below the kneecap on the midline, just lateral to the tibia. This distance will also be the width of the first three fingers together. So to find your Stomach 36, use your first three fingers to measure down from the kneecap next to the shin bone.
2. Go Online
The Internet is a vast treasure trove of health resources, including several online point references. Many of the online resources simply recount the most reliable and well-regarded texts and references from within the acupuncture community.
3. Feel the Vibe
The classic texts on acupuncture often talk of feeling the pulse at certain acupoints. Modern anatomical studies have found a correlation connecting acupuncture points with places on the surface of the body where blood vessels can be felt. Many of the more important acupuncture points are situated near major arteries or veins. Consequently, the pulse is easily detected at these sites.
4. Ouch! What is that Point?
As you feel along an acupuncture meridian, you will notice spots that are noticeably more tender than surrounding tissue. Odds are, that ouchy spot is an acupuncture point. In fact, all tender spots on the body are considered acupuncture points, called "A Shi" points, literally translated as, "Ouch!"
5. Follow the Path of Least Resistance
Acupuncture points have markedly different electrical conductivity than nonacupuncture points. Specifically, acupuncture points show increased electrical conductivity, and the corresponding drop in electrical resistance. Some practitioners use devices that measure galvanic skin response, a measure of the electrical properties of the skin including conductance and resistance, to find and treat acupuncture points. Many of these devices are FDA approved for home use and are relatively inexpensive. You can ask your acupuncturist to procure one for you as well as train you on how to use it.
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