TCM Acupuncture Theory - Shokanten Points and the Nine Continent Pulses
Traditional Chinese Medicine utilizies a number of theories which group acupuncture points together based on their functions and/or other relationships. Many of these theories are important in a clinical setting and are used, along with other theory and diagnostic information, to decide which acupuncture points will be used for a given condition.
Below you find information regarding the shokanten points and the nine continent pulses. See our Acupuncture Point Categories section for a complete list of point categories.
For complete information about a single point, click on it within the chart.
Shokanten Points & the Nine Continent Pulses Theory and Applications
- The Nine Continent Pulses may be used when the when the pulse via the radial artery offers inconclusive information.
- The pulses are also used to aid in the comparative analysis of meridians in the upper and lower portions of the body.
- The Shokanten points are often used to treat conditions arising from a psycho-emotional background. For example, the use of KD 12 when fear is an associated aspect of a child's bedwetting issues.
Shokanten Points & the Nine Continent Pulses Chart
Pulse Location | Division | Shokanten | Effected Area | |
| Upper | Tai Yang | Tai Yang | KD 12 | Sides of the Head |
| Middle | TH 21 | Shao Yang | ST 25/KD 21 | Eyes & Ears |
| Lower | ST 2 | Yang Ming | ST 27 | Mouth & Teeth |
| Upper | LU 9 | Tai Yin | LV 13 | Lungs |
| Middle | HT 7 | Shao Yin | KD 16 | Heart |
| Lower | LI 4 | Jue Yin | LV 14/KD 19 | Chest |
| Upper | LV 3 | Tai Yin | LV 13 | Liver |
| Middle | ST 42 | Shao Yin | KD 16 | Spleen |
Sources and resources for further study
There are many resources which discuss acupuncture and chinese medicine at varying levels. Our research section includes a comprehensive list of the main texts and websites related to chinese medicine.
