NMT 150: TCM Point Actions 2

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Questions and Answers

What is the main action of releasing the exterior in TCM?

Promotes muscle relaxation

Forces out pathogens from the skin layer (correct)

Increases blood circulation

Expels toxins from the body

Which point action would be most effective when dealing with emotional concerns like anxiety or depression?

Removes obstructions

Calms the mind (correct)

Expels exterior wind

Dissipates masses

What method is primarily used to expel wind in TCM?

Opening the 'wind gate' (correct)

Applying heat to the muscle layer

Encouraging deep breathing

Restricting airflow to the body

How does the action to resolve phlegm function in TCM?

Converts phlegm into a less viscous substance Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the purpose of the action 'removes obstructions'?

Treats obstructions of any type that manifest as pain or lack of flow Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct approach for managing the issue of masses in TCM?

Dissipate masses while addressing the root cause simultaneously Signup and view all the answers

What does the action to calm the mind achieve in TCM practices?

Stabilizes emotional disturbances and improves sleep quality Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'expels (exterior) wind'?

Specifically works within the Wei Qi layer to release wind Signup and view all the answers

What is the main treatment principle for Lung Qi Deficiency?

Tonify Lung and Tonify Qi Signup and view all the answers

In addressing a rebellious Lung Qi, what is the primary treatment action?

Subdue rebellious Lung Qi Signup and view all the answers

Which function is targeted when treating chest pain caused by stagnant Lung Qi?

Disperses Lung Qi Signup and view all the answers

What treatment approach focuses on managing symptoms instead of the root cause?

Treating the branch over the root Signup and view all the answers

What action is primarily used to improve conditions that are nearly at optimal levels?

Harmonize Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when using acupuncture points for frequent treatments?

Both Back Shu and Front Mu points are suitable Signup and view all the answers

Which type of pain at an acupuncture point typically indicates the need for tonification?

Dull pain Signup and view all the answers

For which condition would you primarily focus on sedating points?

Heart Fire Signup and view all the answers

Which action is associated with the treatment for a patient presenting with coughing?

Descending Lung Qi Signup and view all the answers

What is a valid reason for using Well points in acupuncture treatment?

To clear excess conditions Signup and view all the answers

When selecting acupuncture points, what should be prioritized first?

Major classes of points Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the approach to treating Lung Yin deficiency?

Tonifies and nourishes Lung Yin Signup and view all the answers

Which point is used to relieve coughing and tonify Lung Yin?

Lung 9 Signup and view all the answers

Which point is primarily indicated for calming the mind and clearing Heart Fire?

Heart 8 Signup and view all the answers

In a balanced treatment approach, what is a potential risk of selecting too many points in one area?

Development of stagnation Signup and view all the answers

Which point is categorized as a sea point and is associated with tonifying Lung Yin?

Lung 5 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Conception Vessel 14 in the context of Heart Fire?

Calming the mind Signup and view all the answers

Which point is a connecting (Luo) point that specifically aids in calming the mind?

Heart 5 Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Triple Warmer play in relation to other organs?

It ensures the function of other organs. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Liver influence the heart according to TCM theory?

It houses the Hun, which provides direction to life. Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely symptom if there is deficiency in Liver Blood?

Dry, brittle nails. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the connection between the Gall Bladder and decision-making?

It enhances planning and courageous decision-making. Signup and view all the answers

What emotional state is likely affected by obstructed Qi in the Liver?

Irritability. Signup and view all the answers

What organ is impacted by the Liver's control over the sinews?

Spleen. Signup and view all the answers

If a person experiences blurred vision and fatigue, which organ's deficiency might be involved?

Liver. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Gall Bladder related to digestive health?

It stores and excretes bile. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Liver influence menstrual health?

By storing and regulating blood volume. Signup and view all the answers

In TCM, what is the significance of nails in relation to the Liver?

Nails show the state of Liver Blood. Signup and view all the answers

Which acupuncture point actions are primarily effective for treating Heart Yin Deficiency?

Tonify Heart Yin and calm the mind Signup and view all the answers

Which points should not be selected for a treatment plan aimed at Heart Yin Deficiency?

Stomach 36 (Zusanli) Signup and view all the answers

What classification term is NOT commonly associated with acupuncture points used for Heart Yin Deficiency?

Descends/Subdues Signup and view all the answers

In selecting points for Heart Yin Deficiency treatment, which pathway aspect should be emphasized?

Strengthening the connection between Heart and Kidney Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following principles would be least important when constructing an acupuncture treatment plan for Heart Yin Deficiency?

Choosing points based solely on their location Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of 'resolves phlegm' in TCM?

Converts phlegm into a more mobile substance Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of the 'removes obstructions' action in TCM?

It facilitates the flow of Qi and blood by alleviating stagnation Signup and view all the answers

When using the 'calms the mind' action, which of the following effects might NOT be expected?

Increasing anxiety levels in response to stress Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the action of 'dissipates masses'?

It reduces the size and impact of masses caused by Qi or Blood stagnation Signup and view all the answers

In the context of TCM, which method is primarily used to deal with external wind?

Utilizing point actions like 'expels wind' to open the gates Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of 'releases the exterior'?

It helps force out pathogens between skin and muscle Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable limitation of the action 'resolves phlegm' in TCM?

It does not address the root cause of phlegm accumulation Signup and view all the answers

Which condition would likely not benefit from the 'calms the mind' action?

Physical pain from Qi stagnation Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of finger placement when performing pulse palpation?

Middle finger on cun, index finger on guan, ring finger on chi. Signup and view all the answers

Which technique enhances sensitivity during pulse examination?

Arching the fingers as if playing an instrument. Signup and view all the answers

During pulse palpation, what should the practitioner do after locating the three positions?

Compare the pulses on both sides at each level. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of leaving space between fingers during pulse palpation?

To accommodate variations in patient size. Signup and view all the answers

When palpating the chi pulse, what is the correct sequence of levels to assess?

Superficial, middle, deep. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a position used in pulse palpation?

Ming Signup and view all the answers

What should be the focus when palpating each pulse at various levels?

Identifying pulses that differ from the norm. Signup and view all the answers

In pulse measurement, what is the primary purpose of comparing left and right hand pulses?

To identify asymmetries indicating potential imbalances. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary emotional association with the Heart element?

Joy Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms is primarily associated with Heart Qi deficiency?

Palpitations Signup and view all the answers

Which tongue appearance is characteristic of Heart Yang deficiency?

Pale, swollen with a white coating Signup and view all the answers

Which pulse characteristics would you expect with Heart Blood deficiency?

Weak and thready Signup and view all the answers

What could be a psychological effect of Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart?

Mental confusion or depression Signup and view all the answers

What flavor is associated with the Heart element?

Bitter Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of Heart Blood stagnation?

Cyanosis of the lips Signup and view all the answers

Which organ does the Small Intestine communicate with?

Heart Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a symptom of Full-Heat in the Small Intestine?

Scanty and dark urine Signup and view all the answers

What is likely to occur in severe cases of Heart Yang deficiency?

Heart Yang Collapse Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic tongue appearance for Heart Yin deficiency?

Red body with little or no coat Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the mind does the Heart NOT house?

Jing Signup and view all the answers

What is an expected symptom of Heart Fire?

Thirst Signup and view all the answers

Which condition may lead to dizziness and spontaneous sweating?

Heart Qi deficiency Signup and view all the answers

What type of pulse might characterize a patient with Heart Vessel obstruction?

Wiry, choppy, knotted Signup and view all the answers

Which emotion is associated with the Fire element?

Joy Signup and view all the answers

What is the pulse characteristic of Pericardium Blood Deficiency?

Choppy or thready Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is NOT a symptom of Pericardium Heat?

Pale, thin tongue Signup and view all the answers

What symptom would indicate blood stasis in the Pericardium?

Feeling of oppression Signup and view all the answers

Which flavor is associated with the Fire element?

Bitter and sharp Signup and view all the answers

What tongue presentation would indicate Phlegm-Fire Harassing the Pericardium?

Red with a yellow dry sticky coat Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with Pericardium Qi Stagnation?

Sudden weight loss Signup and view all the answers

The primary function of the Triple Warmer includes which of the following?

Controls transportation of Qi Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of the tongue would indicate Pericardium Fire?

Red with redder swollen tip Signup and view all the answers

What psychological symptom can be noted in a person with Phlegm-Fire Harassing the Pericardium?

Mental confusion Signup and view all the answers

What pulse characteristic would typically be found in a patient with Pericardium Blood Deficiency?

Choppy Signup and view all the answers

During which time frame does the Heart primarily dominate energy according to traditional theories?

11am - 1pm Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is often found in patients suffering from Blood Stasis in the Pericardium?

Pain radiating to the left arm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic tongue observation for Qi Stagnation in the Pericardium?

Slightly pale-purple on the sides at the front Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Terminology

Releases the Exterior: Flushes external pathogens like wind, heat, cold, dampness; effective at early symptoms; operates as a diaphoretic causing sweating.
Expels Wind: Specifically targets external wind, creating openings for its removal, particularly in the Wei Qi layer.
Calms the Mind: Addresses various mental states; slows overactivity, promotes sleep, aids emotional issues like anxiety and depression, best when combined with root-cause treatments.
Resolves Phlegm: Converts phlegm to a more mobile state, does not address root causes; effective with complementary actions.
Removes Obstructions: Alleviates pain and restores flow, applicable for Qi or Blood stagnation, phlegm/damp, and cold; functions based on self-regulation.
Dissipates Masses: Targets Qi stagnation, Blood stagnation, or phlegm-damp accumulation to reduce size and impact; supports branch treatment over root causes.

Treatment Principles

Based on Zang-Fu Diagnosis: Example includes treating Lung Qi Deficiency by tonifying Lung and Qi.
Based on Symptoms: Symptomatic treatment may include relieving cough, opening the chest, and nasal congestion.
Based on Dysfunction: Treats signature symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain by either descending, subduing, or dispersing Lung Qi.
Based on Indications: Use specific point actions to treat identifiable symptoms while focusing on symptomatic relief over long-term management.

TCM Liver Functions

Stores Blood: Regulates blood volume during physical activity and rest, maintains eye and sinew health, and influences menstruation.
Ensures Smooth Flow of Qi: Essential for emotional balance; poor Qi flow leads to irritability. Aids in digestion and bile secretion.
Controls Sinews: Nourishes tendons, related to Blood levels; GB 34 is the influential point for sinews.
Manifests in Nails: Nails reflect Liver health; dryness indicates deficiency, while stagnation shows color changes.
Opens into Eyes: Requires adequate Liver Blood for clear vision, deficiencies can cause various eye impairments.
Controls Tears: Tears support eye moisture, not linked to emotions; deficiencies lead to dry eyes.
Houses the Hun: Ethereal soul relates to life direction, affected by Liver function.

Gall Bladder Functions

Stores and Excretes Bile: Aids in digestion, dependent on Liver Qi circulation. Unique as the only Yang organ storing a pure substance.
Controls Decisions: Collaborates with the Liver for planning and motivation, necessary for courage and initiative.
Controls Sinews: Shares functional roles with the Liver but focuses more on Qi distribution.

Point Selection Strategy

Align point actions with treatment principles and patient presentation for effective treatment outcomes.
Differentiate between deficiency (using source, back shu, connecting points) and excess (using front mu, well points).
Use points based on specific symptoms, ensuring actions align with the treatment principles.
Create a balanced treatment approach by selecting points from various body areas to avoid stagnation.

Common Point Actions

Lung Yin Deficiency: Example points include Lung 9 for tonification and Urinary Bladder 13 for dispersal and nourishment.
Heart Fire: Utilize points like Heart 8 and Pericardium 8 for calming the mind and clearing heat.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Action Terms

Releases the Exterior: Targets external pathogens such as wind, heat, cold, dampness, and dryness; most effective at first symptoms.
Expels Wind: Specifically addresses exterior wind by opening gates for escape, particularly through the Wei Qi layer.
Calms the Mind: Adapts to various conditions to either slow an overactive mind or stimulate a slow one; effective for sleep issues, anxiety, and depression.
Resolves Phlegm: Converts phlegm into a less viscous form but does not address the underlying cause; best used in combination with treatments targeting the root.
Removes Obstructions: Treats various obstructions causing pain or flow issues; addresses Qi stagnation, phlegm/damp, and cold.
Dissipates Masses: Aims to reduce masses generally caused by Qi stagnation, blood stagnation, or phlegm-damp accumulation; treats symptoms rather than root causes.

Pulse Palpation Techniques

Identify the styloid process of the radius as a landmark for pulse palpation; utilize three finger positions (cun, guan, chi).
Apply arching technique for sensitivity; compare pulses at three levels (superficial, middle, deep) for discrepancies.
Assess the pulsation differences between both wrists to gather diagnostic information.

Heart Functions and Imbalances

Govern Blood: The heart is responsible for circulation and maintains balance through heart Qi and blood.
House the Shen (Mind): This includes the mental and spiritual aspects affecting a person's emotional state.
Common Heart Deficiencies: Symptoms vary, including dizziness, palpitations, fatigue, cold limbs, and pale tongue indicating potential deficiencies in Qi, Yang, Blood, or Yin.

Heart Conditions and Symptoms

Heart Qi Deficiency: Causes symptoms like palpitations, fatigue, and a pale tongue with thin coating.
Heart Yang Deficiency: Symptoms include chills, cold limbs, and a pale swollen tongue, leading to severe cases of heart yang collapse.
Heart Blood Deficiency: Presents with insomnia, pale complexion, and weak pulses indicative of emotional disturbances.
Heart Yin Deficiency: Involves symptoms like malar flush and night sweats, with a red tongue and rapid pulse.
Heart Fire: Associated with insomnia, red face, and a bitter taste in the morning; indicated by a red tongue with a redder tip.
Phlegm-Fire Harassing the Heart: Results in mental confusion, palpitations, and incoherent speech; patients may have a red tongue with a sticky coat.
Phlegm Misting the Mind: Leads to mental confusion, lethargy, and thick sticky tongue coating.
Heart Qi Stagnation: Caused by emotional distress, leading to poor appetite and sighing with a purple tongue.
Heart Vessel Obliterated: Characterized by heaviness in the chest and sharp pain; a purple tongue and wiry pulse may be detected.
Heart Blood Stagnation: Causes constriction in the chest and potential cyanosis, indicated by a dark purple tongue.

Lung and Heart Interrelationship

Lung Weakness: Presents with cough and asthma symptoms, affecting breathing.
Heart Weakness: Shows as palpitations and insomnia, correlating with lung conditions.

Small Intestine Functions and Imbalances

Functional Role: Separates pure substances from turbid, communicating with several organs including the stomach, spleen, and bladder.
Full-Heat in the SI: Symptoms include scanty, dark urine and painful urination, often seen in states of anxiety and restlessness.
SI Qi Pain: Linked to excessive consumption of cold foods; signs include abdominal pain and dislike of pressure.
SI Deficient & Cold: Shows with abdominal pain and desire for hot drinks; presents as pale tongue with white coating.### Fire Element
Associated organs: Heart and Small Intestine
Emotional sound: Laughter; indicates a joyful disposition
Related organs: Pericardium and Triple Warmer, characterized by talkativeness
Relevant secretion: Sweat, linked to thermal regulation
Illness sound: Belching, indicating digestive distress
Key senses: Taste and Speech; important for communication and interaction
Primary emotion: Joy; harmonizes with the season of Summer
Olfactory characteristic: Scorched (burnt) odor; signifies an imbalance
Climatic condition: Hot; influences bodily functions
Flavor profiles: Bitter and sharp; reflect dietary influences on health
Timeframes: Heart (11am-1pm) and Small Intestine (1pm-3pm); optimal peak functioning

Pericardium Functions

Protection of the Heart from external pathogens
Governance of Blood; houses Shen (spirit or mind)
Functions to stimulate or calm the mind based on emotional states

Pericardium Heat

Causes: Wind-heat invasion affecting Nutritive Qi, emotional strain
Key manifestations: Night fever, mental confusion, incoherent speech, delirium
Tongue appearance: Red and dry without coating
Pulse characteristics: Thready and rapid, reflecting heightened energy

Pericardium Blood Deficiency

Common causes: Emotional strain, sadness, grief
Symptoms: Poor memory, easily startled, dull complexion, pale lips, chest discomfort
Additional signs: Scanty menstrual cycles, palpitations, anxiety, insomnia
Tongue appearance: Pale, thin, slightly dry
Pulse characteristics: Choppy or thready, notably in left cun position

Pericardium Fire

Causes: Emotional strain, intake of hot foods
Symptoms: Insomnia, palpitations, tightness in the chest, mild chest ache
Tongue presentation: Red, swollen tip, possibly with red dots and yellow coat
Pulse manifestations: Full and rapid, may overflow

Phlegm-Fire Harassing Pericardium

Causes: Emotional strain, high consumption of hot foods
Symptoms: Insomnia, agitation, incoherent speech, mental confusion
Additional signs: Tachypnea, red face, bitter taste
Tongue appearance: Red, swollen with yellow, sticky coat
Pulse characteristics: Full, rapid, slippery or wiry

Pericardium Qi Stagnation

Causes: Emotional strain, leading to disturbances in Qi flow
Symptoms: Irritability, poor appetite, mild shortness of breath
Additional signs: Tightness in chest, feelings of a lump in the throat
Tongue: Mildly pale-purple on sides at front
Pulse: Empty or may overflow in left cun position

Blood Stasis in Pericardium

Causes: Emotional strain, impacting blood circulation
Symptoms: Cyanosis in lips/nails, cold extremities, painful periods with clots
Pain Presentation: Stabbing pain in chest, possibly radiating to left arm
Tongue appearance: Purple, especially on the sides or throughout
Pulse characteristics: Choppy, wiry, or knotted, indicating stagnation

Triple Warmer Functions

Mobilizes Original Qi; essential for life force
Controls transportation and penetration of Qi within the body
Manages water passages and fluid excretion
Responsible for transforming, transporting, and excreting bodily fluids

Pulse Charting

Intensity grading: Scale from 0-10, with best practice being 0-3
Descriptors used: Weak, moderate, strong
Important factors: Specifications for each location, e.g., wiry in Liver

Tongue Charting

Importance of natural lighting for accurate observation
Variability in views; clothing can obscure tongue color
Clarity in documentation to facilitate understanding by others
Emphasis on inclusivity of detailed observations for best clinical practice

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Description

Explore the key action terms in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) within the context of Naturopathic Therapeutics I. This quiz will help you understand concepts such as releasing the exterior, calming the mind, and resolving phlegm. Test your knowledge on TCM principles and their applications in practice.