（《素问·缪刺论》全）
黄帝问曰∶余闻缪刺，未得其意，何谓缪刺？（缪，异也。左病刺右，右病刺左，刺异其处，故曰缪刺，治奇邪之
在络者也。）岐伯对曰∶夫邪之客于形也，必先舍于皮毛，留而不去，入舍于孙脉，留而不去，入舍于络脉，留而不去，
入舍于经脉，内连五脏，散于肠胃，阴阳俱感，五脏乃伤，此邪之从皮毛而入，极于五脏之次也，如此则治其经焉。（邪
气自浅入深而极于五脏之次者，当治其经。治经者，十二经穴之正刺也，尚非缪刺之谓。）今邪客于皮毛，入舍于孙络，
留而不去，闭塞不通，不得入于经，流溢于大络而生奇病也。（大络者，十二经支别之络也。病在支络，行不由经，故曰
奇邪。）夫邪客大络者，左注右，右注左，上下左右与经相干，而布于四末，其气无常处，不入于经俞，命曰缪刺。（支
而横者为络，邪客于大络，故左注右，右注左。布于四末而气无常处，故当治以缪刺。）帝曰∶愿闻缪刺以左取右、以右
取左奈何？其与巨刺何以别之？岐伯曰∶邪客于经，左盛则右病，右盛则左病，亦有移易者，左痛未已而右脉先病，如
此者必巨刺之，必中其经，非络脉也。（缪刺之法以左取右，以右取左，巨刺亦然。但巨刺者，刺大经者也，故曰巨刺。
缪刺者，刺其大络，异于经者也，故曰缪刺。皆以治病之左右移易者。巨刺义出前第五章。）故络病者，其痛与经脉缪处，
故命曰缪刺。（络浅经深，络横经直，故其病缪处也。）
帝曰∶愿闻缪刺奈何？取之何如？岐伯曰∶邪客于足少阴之络，令人卒心痛暴胀，胸胁支满。（足少阴别络，并本经
上肾，从肾上贯肝膈，走于心包，故病如此。）无积者，刺然骨之前出血，如食顷而已；（疾虽如上而内无积聚者，刺然
骨之前，即足少阴之荥，然谷穴也。食顷，一饭顷也。后仿此。王氏曰∶刺此多出血，令人立饥欲食。）不已，左取右，
右取左。（如病不已，在左者取右然谷，在右者取左然谷，此即缪刺之法也。余准此。）病新发者，取五日已。（病新发者，
邪未深也，虽不即愈，亦不过五日而已矣。）
邪客于手少阳之络，令人喉痹舌卷，口干心烦，臂外廉痛，手不及头。（手少阳之支别，上出缺盆，上项，注胸中，
合心主；其经出臂外两骨之间，贯肘上肩，故病如此。）刺手中指次指爪甲上，去端如韭叶各一 ，（中指当作小指，谓
手少阳之井，关冲穴也。左右皆刺，故言各一 。 ，委、伟二音，刺瘢也。）壮者立已，老者有顷已，左取右，右取左，
此新病数日已。（上言左右各一 ，以左右俱病也。此言左取右、右取左，以病有偏着也。皆缪刺之法。后准此。新病数
日已，盖言有不即已者，若系新病，亦不出数日而已也。）
邪客于足厥阴之络，令人卒疝暴痛。（足厥阴之别，循胫上睾结于茎，故为疝痛。）刺足大趾爪甲上，与肉交者各一
，（此足厥阴之井，大敦穴也。）男子立已，女子有顷已，左取右，右取左。（男阳女阴，阳气至速，阴气至迟也。）
邪客于足太阳之络，令人头项肩痛。（足太阳支者，从巅下行，还出别下项，循肩膊内，故为是病。）刺足小趾爪甲
上，与肉交者各一 ，立已；（足太阳之井，至阴穴也。）不已，刺外踝下三 ，左取右，右取左，如食顷已。（外踝下足
太阳之 ，金门穴也。三 ，三刺也。一日一刺，得效乃已。食顷义见前。）
邪客于手阳明之络，令人气满胸中，喘息而支 ，胸中热。（手阳明之脉，下入缺盆，络肺下膈，其支者从缺盆上颈，
故为此病。）刺手大指次指爪甲上，去端如韭叶各一 ，左取右，右取左，如食顷已。（手阳明之井，商阳穴也。）
邪客于臂掌之间，不可得屈。刺其踝后，（邪客于臂掌之间，手厥阴经也。踝后者，以两踝言，踝中之后，则内关也。
内关为手厥阴之络，故当取之。）先以指按之痛乃刺之。以月死生为数，月生一日一 ，二日二 ，十五日十五 ，十六
日十四 。（月之死生，随日盈缩以为数也。故自初一至十五，月日以盈，为之生数，当日增一 ，一 即一刺也，至十
五日，渐增至十五 矣。自十六至三十日，月日以缩，为之死数，当日减一刺，故十六日止十四 ，减至月终，唯一刺
矣。盖每日一刺，以朔望为进止也。）
邪客于足阳跷之脉，令人目痛从内 始。（阴阳跷脉，俱起于足跟，其气上行，皆属于目内 ，故病如此。）刺外踝
之下半寸所各二 ，左刺右，右刺左，如行十里顷而已。（外踝之下半寸所，足太阳申脉也，阳跷所生，故宜刺之。）
人有所堕坠，恶血留内，腹中满胀，不得前后。先饮利药，此上伤厥阴之脉，下伤少阴之络，刺足内踝之下、然骨
之前血脉出血，（先饮利药，逐留内之瘀血也。凡堕坠者，必病在筋骨，故上伤厥阴之脉，肝主筋也；下伤少阴之络，肾
主骨也。刺然骨之前出血，即少阴络也。）刺足跗上动脉；（足厥阴之 ，太冲穴也。按∶王氏谓为阳明之冲阳，似与此
无涉。）不已，刺三毛上各一 ，见血立已，左刺右，右刺左。（足厥阴之井，大敦穴也。）善悲惊不乐，刺如右方。（堕
跌伤阴，神气散失，故善悲惊不乐。）
邪客于手阳明之络，令人耳聋，时不闻音。（手阳明之别者入耳，故为耳聋。）刺手大指次指爪甲上，去端如韭叶各
一，立闻；（手阳明之井，商阳穴也。）不已，刺中指爪甲上与肉交者，立闻。（中指爪甲上，手厥阴之井，中冲穴也。
以心主之脉出耳后，合少阳完骨之下，故宜取之。）其不时闻者，不可刺也。（时或有闻者，尚为可治；其不闻者，络气
已绝，刺亦无益，故不可刺也。）耳中生风者，亦刺之如此数，左刺右，右刺左。（耳中如风声者，虽聋犹有所闻，故宜
刺如前数，当左右缪取之。）
凡痹往来，行无常处者，在分肉间痛而刺之。以月死生为数，用针者随气盛衰以为 数，针过其日数则脱气，不及
日数则气不泻，左刺右，右刺左，病已止；不已，复刺之如法。（在分肉间痛而刺之，谓随痛所在，求其络而缪刺之也。）
月生一日一 ，二日二 ，渐多之，十五日十五 ；十六日十四 ，渐少之。（此即月死生之数，义如前。按∶本篇以月
死生为数，如上节曰∶用针者随气盛衰以为 数，针过其日数则脱气，不及日数则气不泻。此气候之刺数也。观前二十
九章曰∶厥阴少阳，日一取之；太阴阳明，日二取之；少阴太阳，二日一取之。此又诸经亦有刺数。当与此参酌为用而
别其盛衰，庶乎尽善。）
邪客于足阳明之络，令人鼽衄上齿寒。（足阳明之脉，起于鼻之交 中，下循鼻外入上齿，故络病如此。）刺足中趾
次趾爪甲上，与肉交者各一 ，左刺右，右刺左。（中趾次趾，皆足阳明所出之经，即厉兑穴次也。）
邪客于足少阳之络，令人胁痛不得息，咳而汗出。（足少阳支者下胸中，贯膈循胁肋，故为此病。）刺足小趾次趾爪
甲上，与肉交者各一 ，（足少阳之井窍阴穴也。）不得息立已，汗出立止，咳者温衣饮食一日已，左刺右，右刺左，病
立已；不已，复刺如法。（温衣饮食，言饮食俱宜暖也。）
邪客于足少阴之络，令人嗌痛不可内食，无故善怒，气上走贲上。（足少阴之脉循喉咙，故嗌痛不可内食。其别者并
经上走于心包，故善怒而气上走于贲门之上。盖邪在少阴，肾水必虚，阴火上炽，故为嗌痛善怒等病。内，纳同。贲，
奔、秘二音。）刺足下中央之脉各三 ，凡六刺，立已，左刺右，右刺左。（足下中央，少阴之井，涌泉穴也。左右俱痛
者，各刺三 。痛在一边者，缪刺之。）嗌中肿，不能内唾，时不能出唾者，刺然骨之前出血，立已，左刺右，右刺左。
（然骨之前；足少阴之荥，然谷穴也。）
邪客于足太阴之络，令人腰痛，引少腹控 ，不可以仰息。（足太阴之脉络，上入腹，布胸胁而筋着于脊，故为病如
此。控，引也。 ，季胁下也。）刺腰尻之解，两胂之上是腰俞，以月死生为 数，发针立已，左刺右，右刺左。（腰尻
骨解两胂之上者，督脉腰俞之旁也。以月死生为 数，义如前。腰俞止一穴居中，本无左右，此言左取右、右取左者，
必腰俞左右，即足太阳之下 穴也。腰尻两胂义，详本类后四十九。胂音申。）
邪客于足太阳之络，令人拘挛背急，引胁而痛。（足太阳经挟脊抵腰中，故拘挛背急。其筋从腋后入腋下，故引胁而
痛。）刺之从项始，数脊椎，侠脊疾按之，应手如痛，刺之旁三 ，立已。（此刺不拘俞穴，但自项大椎为始，从下数其
脊椎，或开一寸半，或开三寸，侠脊处疾按之，应手而痛，即刺处也。脊之两旁各刺三 ，病当自已。）
邪客于足少阳之络，令人留于枢中痛，髀不可举。（枢中，髀枢也，足少阳脉所由行者。）刺枢中以毫针，寒则久留
针，以月死生为数，立已。（髀枢中，足少阳环跳穴也。若寒者，须久留针，则寒邪乃去，故以月死生为数。）
治诸经刺之所过者不病，则缪刺之。（诸经所过者不病，言病不在经而在络也，故缪刺之。若病刺在经，则谓之巨刺
矣。）
耳聋，刺手阳明；不已，刺其通脉出耳前者。（此复言手阳明之耳聋，当刺商阳如前也。刺其通脉出耳前者，手阳明
脉，正当足少阳听会之分也。）
齿龋，刺手阳明；不已，刺其脉入齿中者，立已。（龋，齿痛也。手阳明之脉贯颊入下齿中，故当刺大肠经之商阳也。
如不已，则刺其痛脉之入齿中者。按∶《甲乙经》注手阳明脉，商阳、二间、三间、合谷、阳溪、偏历、温溜，七穴皆主
齿痛。龋，丘禹切。）
邪客于五脏之间，其病也，脉引而痛，时来时止。视其病，缪刺之于手足爪甲上。（邪客于五脏之间，必各引其经而
痛，但视病处，各取其井而缪刺之。）视其脉，出其血，间日一刺；一刺不已，五刺已。（有血络者，当刺去其血亦如数。）
缪传引上齿，齿唇寒痛。视其手背脉血者去之，（缪传者，病在下齿而引及上齿也。上齿属足阳明，下齿属手阳明。
今上下引痛者，当视手阳明之络，有血者先去之。）足阳明中指爪甲上一 ，手大指次指爪甲上各一 ，立已，左取右，
右取左。（足阳明中指爪甲上，谓厉兑穴也。手大指次指爪甲上，手阳明商阳穴也。）
邪客于手足少阴太阴足阳明之络，此五络皆会于耳中，上络左角，（手少阴，心也。足少阴，肾也。手太阴，肺也。
足太阴，脾也。足阳明，胃也。五络皆会于耳中，上络左额之角。）五络俱竭，令人身脉皆动而形无知也，其状若尸，或
曰尸厥。（五络俱竭，阴阳离散也。身脉皆动，筋惕肉 也。上下离竭，厥逆气乱，昏愦无知，故名尸厥。）刺其足大趾
内侧爪甲上，去端如韭叶，（足太阴之井，隐白穴也。）后刺足心，（足少阴之井，涌泉穴也。）后刺足中趾爪甲上各一 ，
（足阳明之井，厉兑穴也。）后刺手大指内侧，去端如韭叶，（手太阴之井，少商穴也。）后刺手心主，（手厥阴之井，中
冲穴也。凡邪之在心者，皆在于心之包络，故取之。）少阴锐骨之端各一 ，立已；（谓神门穴，手少阴之 也。）不已，
以竹管吹其两耳，（以小竹管纳对耳孔，用力吹之，勿令气泄，所以温助五络，气可复通也。新校正云∶按陶隐居谓吹其
左耳极三度，复吹其右耳三度也。） 其左角之发方一寸，燔治，饮以美酒一杯，不能饮者灌之，立已。 ，剃同。左角
之发，五络之血余也。燔治，烧制为末也。饮以美酒，助药力行血气也。补以其类，故可使尸厥立已。）
凡刺之数，先视其经脉，切而从之，审其虚实而调之，不调者经刺之，（病在经者，治从其经，但审其虚实而调之。
调者，如汤液导引之类皆是也。调之而不调，然后刺其经脉，是谓经刺，亦曰巨刺。）有痛而经不病者缪刺之，（有痛而
经不病者，病在大络也，故当缪刺之。）因视其皮部有血络者尽取之，此缪刺之数也。（皮部有血络者，邪在皮肤孙络也，
故当尽取其血。凡此刺经者，刺大络者，刺皮部血络者，各有其治，所以辨缪刺之术数也。
（《素问·缪刺论》全文）
黄帝问道：我听说有“缪刺”这种疗法，但尚未理解其含义，什么是缪刺？（注：缪，意为交错。左侧患病针刺右侧，右侧患病针刺左侧，针刺部位与病位左右相反，故称为缪刺，用于治疗停留在络脉中的奇异邪气。）岐伯回答说：大凡邪气侵袭人体，必定先停留于皮毛；若留滞不去，则深入孙脉；再留滞不去，则进入络脉；继续留滞不去，则传入经脉，内连五脏，散布于肠胃，致使阴阳俱受邪侵，五脏受损。这是邪气从皮毛侵入，逐渐深入直至五脏的次序。像这种情况，应当治疗其经脉。（注：邪气由浅入深，最终极于五脏的，应当治疗其经脉。所谓治经，是指对十二正经穴位进行常规直刺，这并不属于缪刺的范畴。）如今，邪气客居在皮毛，进而进入孙络，留滞不去，导致闭塞不通，无法进入经脉，反而流溢于大络，从而产生奇异的病症。（注：大络，是十二经脉分支别出的络脉。病位在支络，行走路径不经过经脉，所以称为奇邪。）当邪气客居在大络时，左边的邪气会流向右边，右边的邪气会流向左边，上下左右与经脉相互干扰，并布散于四肢末端，其气流没有固定的位置，也不进入经脉的腧穴，这就叫做缪刺。（注：分支而横行的称为络，邪气客居在大络，所以左注右、右注左。布散于四肢末端且气流无固定位置，因此应当用缪刺法治疗。）黄帝说：我希望了解缪刺如何做到左病取右、右病取左？它与巨刺有什么区别？岐伯说：邪气客居在经脉，左侧盛实则右侧发病，右侧盛实则左侧发病，也有病情转移的情况，如左侧疼痛未止而右侧脉象先出现病变，像这样的情况必须用巨刺法，一定要刺中经脉，而不是络脉。（注：缪刺法是左病取右、右病取左，巨刺法也是如此。但巨刺是刺大经，所以叫巨刺；缪刺是刺大络，不同于经脉，所以叫缪刺。两者都是用于治疗疾病左右移易的情况。巨刺的含义出自前文第五章。）所以络脉的病，其疼痛位置与经脉交错不同，因此命名为缪刺。（注：络脉浅表，经脉深沉；络脉横行，经脉纵行，所以它们的病位是交错的。）
黄帝说：我想了解缪刺具体怎么做？选取穴位有什么原则？岐伯说：邪气客居在足少阴肾经的络脉，使人突然心痛、暴胀、胸胁支撑满闷。（注：足少阴之别络，与本经一起上行至肾，从肾上贯肝膈，走于心包，所以出现上述病症。）如果没有积聚病灶的，针刺然骨之前的出血处，大约吃一顿饭的时间就可以痊愈；（注：病势虽然如上所述但体内无积聚的，针刺然骨之前，即足少阴经的荥穴——然谷穴。食顷，指一顿饭的时间。后文仿照此例。王冰说：多刺些血，能让人立刻感到饥饿想吃东西。）如果无效，则左病取右，右病取左。（注：如果病未愈，左侧有病取右侧然谷穴，右侧有病取左侧然谷穴，这就是缪刺法。其余类推。）新发的病，针刺五次即可痊愈。（注：新发的病，邪气尚浅，即使不能立即痊愈，也不过五次针刺而已。）
邪气客居在手少阳三焦经的络脉，使人喉痹、舌卷缩、口干、心烦、手臂外侧疼痛、手举不过头。（注：手少阳的支别，向上出于缺盆，上项，注入胸中，与心主相合；其经脉出于臂外两骨之间，贯穿肘部上肩，所以出现上述病症。）针刺手中指和次指（应为小指和无名指，此处原文有误或通假，指手少阳井穴关冲）指甲上，距离指尖如韭菜叶宽的地方各一刺，（注：中指应作小指，指手少阳的井穴——关冲穴。左右都刺，所以说各一刺。剌，音委、伟，指针刺留下的瘢痕。）体质壮实的立刻痊愈，年老体弱的片刻后痊愈，左病取右，右病取左，新病数日可愈。（注：上文说左右各一刺，是因为左右都有病；这里说左取右、右取左，是因为病偏着于一侧。都是缪刺法。后文以此为准。新病数日愈，是说有的不能立即好，如果是新病，也不出数日就好。）
邪气客居在足厥阴肝经的络脉，使人突然疝气、剧烈疼痛。（注：足厥阴之别络，沿胫骨上睾结于阴茎，所以发生疝痛。）针刺足大趾爪甲上，与肉交接的地方各一刺，（注：这是足厥阴的井穴——大敦穴。）男子立刻痊愈，女子片刻后痊愈，左病取右，右病取左。（注：男属阳女属阴，阳气到达迅速，阴气到达迟缓。）
邪气客居在足太阳膀胱经的络脉，使人头项肩痛。（注：足太阳的支脉，从头顶下行，复出别下项，循行肩膊内侧，所以患这些病。）针刺足小趾爪甲上，与肉交接的地方各一刺，立刻痊愈；（注：足太阳的井穴——至阴穴。）如果无效，针刺外踝下三寸处，左病取右，右病取左，大约吃一顿饭的时间痊愈。（注：外踝下足太阳经的金门穴。三刺，指针刺三次。一天刺一次，见效为止。食顷的意思见前文。）
邪气客居在手阳明大肠经的络脉，使人气满胸中、喘息、胸部支撑发热。（注：手阳明的脉，向下进入缺盆，络肺下膈，其支者从缺盆上颈，所以患这些病。）针刺手大指和次指爪甲上，距离指尖如韭菜叶宽的地方各一刺，左病取右，右病取左，大约吃一顿饭的时间痊愈。（注：手阳明的井穴——商阳穴。）
邪气客居在臂掌之间，导致手臂无法屈伸。针刺其踝后，（注：邪气客居在臂掌之间，涉及手厥阴经。踝后者，指两踝之后，即内关穴。内关为手厥阴之络，所以应当取它。）先用手指按压，感到疼痛后再针刺。根据月亮的盈亏来确定针刺次数，月亮初生第一天刺一刺，第二天刺二刺，第十五天刺十五刺，第十六天刺十四刺。（注：月亮的死生，随着日期的盈亏而定数。所以从初一至十五，月亮日渐圆满，为生数，每天增加一刺，一刺即一次针刺，到第十五天，逐渐增加到十五刺。从十六至三十日，月亮日渐亏缺，为死数，每天减少一刺，所以第十六天只刺十四刺，减至月底，只剩一刺。大概每日一刺，以朔望为进退标准。）
邪气客居在足阳跷脉，使人目痛从内眦开始。（注：阴阳跷脉，都起于足跟，其气上行，都归属于目内眦，所以患这些病。）针刺外踝下半寸处各二刺，左刺右，右刺左，大约走十里路的时间痊愈。（注：外踝下半寸处，是足太阳经的申脉穴，阳跷脉所生，所以适宜针刺。）
人有所坠落，恶血留滞体内，腹部胀满，大小便不通。先服用通利药物，这是因为上伤厥阴之脉，下伤少阴之络。针刺足内踝之下、然骨之前的血脉出血，（注：先饮利药，是为了驱逐留滞体内的瘀血。凡是坠落伤者，病必在筋骨，所以上伤厥阴之脉，因为肝主筋；下伤少阴之络，因为肾主骨。刺然骨之前出血，即是少阴络脉。）再刺足背上的动脉；（注：足厥阴经的太冲穴。按：王冰认为是阳明经的冲阳穴，似乎与此无关。）如果无效，刺脚趾毛际上各一刺，见血立刻痊愈，左刺右，右刺左。（注：足厥阴的井穴——大敦穴。）容易悲伤惊恐、心情不乐的，针刺方法同上。（注：堕跌损伤阴液，神气散失，所以容易悲伤惊恐不乐。）
邪气客居在手阳明大肠经的络脉，使人耳聋，时常听不见声音。（注：手阳明的别络进入耳中，所以导致耳聋。）针刺手大指和次指爪甲上，距离指尖如韭菜叶宽的地方各一刺，立刻能听见；（注：手阳明的井穴——商阳穴。）如果无效，刺中指爪甲上与肉交接的地方，立刻能听见。（注：中指爪甲上，是手厥阴的井穴——中冲穴。因为心主的脉出耳后，合于少阳完骨之下，所以适宜取它。）如果不时常能听见（完全失聪），不可针刺。（注：时常能听见的，还可以治疗；完全听不见的，络气已绝，针刺也无益，所以不可刺。）耳朵里像有风声的，也这样针刺，左刺右，右刺左。（注：耳中如风声者，虽然聋了但犹有所闻，所以适宜像前面那样针刺，应当左右交叉取穴。）
凡是痹症往来不定，行走没有固定位置的，在分肉间疼痛处针刺。根据月亮的盈亏确定针刺次数，用针的人随着气血的盛衰来决定刺数，针刺超过日期规定的数量就会耗气，少于日期规定的数量则邪气不能排出，左刺右，右刺左，病好了就停止；如果没好，再按这种方法针刺。（注：在分肉间疼痛处针刺，是说随着疼痛所在，寻找其络脉进行缪刺。）月亮初生第一天刺一刺，第二天刺二刺，逐渐增多，第十五天刺十五刺；第十六天刺十四刺，逐渐减少。（注：这就是月死生的刺数，意义如前。按：本篇以月死生为数，如上节说：用针的人随气盛衰以为刺数，针过其日数则脱气，不及日数则气不泻。这是气候的刺数。看前二十九章说：厥阴少阳，一日一取；太阴阳明，一日二取；少阴太阳，二日一取。这又是各经的刺数。应当与此参照使用并辨别盛衰，才算尽善。）
邪气客居在足阳明胃经的络脉，使人鼻渊衄血、上齿发冷。（注：足阳明的脉，起于鼻之交頞中，向下循鼻外进入上齿，所以络脉生病如此。）针刺足中趾和次趾爪甲上，与肉交接的地方各一刺，左刺右，右刺左。（注：中趾次趾，都是足阳明经所出的穴位，即厉兑穴等。）
邪气客居在足少阳胆经的络脉，使人胁痛不能呼吸，咳嗽且出汗。（注：足少阳的支脉下胸中，贯膈循胁肋，所以患这些病。）针刺足小趾和次趾爪甲上，与肉交接的地方各一刺，（注：足少阳的井穴——窍阴穴。）不能呼吸立刻好转，出汗立刻停止，咳嗽者保暖衣物饮食一天后痊愈，左刺右，右刺左，病立刻好；如果无效，再按这种方法针刺。（注：温衣饮食，是说衣物和饮食都宜温暖。）
邪气客居在足少阴肾经的络脉，使人咽痛不能进食，无故容易发怒，气向上走到贲门之上。（注：足少阴的脉循喉咙，所以咽痛不能进食。其别络并行经上走于心包，所以容易发怒且气上走于贲门之上。大概邪在少阴，肾水必虚，阴火上炽，所以发生咽痛善怒等病。内，同纳。贲，音奔、秘。）针刺足底中央的脉各三刺，共六刺，立刻痊愈，左刺右，右刺左。（注：足下中央，是少阴的井穴——涌泉穴。左右都痛的，各刺三刺。痛在一边的，用缪刺法。）咽喉中间肿，不能吞咽唾液，时常想吐却吐不出来的，刺然骨之前出血，立刻痊愈，左刺右，右刺左。（注：然骨之前，是足少阴的荥穴——然谷穴。）
邪气客居在足太阴脾经的络脉，使人腰痛，牵引小腹及季胁，不可以仰身呼吸。（注：足太阴的脉络，上入腹，布胸胁而筋附着于脊，所以患这些病。控，牵引。 ，季胁下。）针刺腰尻骨缝处，两胂之上的腰俞穴，根据月亮的盈亏决定刺数，发针立刻痊愈，左刺右，右刺左。（注：腰尻骨解两胂之上者，是督脉腰俞的旁边。以月死生为刺数，意义如前。腰俞只有一个穴位居中，本来没有左右之分，这里说左取右、右取左，一定是腰俞左右，即足太阳经的下 穴。腰尻两胂的意义，详见本类后四十九。胂音申。）
邪气客居在足太阳膀胱经的络脉，使人拘挛背急，牵引胁肋而痛。（注：足太阳经挟脊抵腰中，所以拘挛背急。其筋从腋后入腋下，所以牵引胁肋而痛。）针刺从颈部开始，数脊椎，夹脊快速按压，手下感到疼痛的地方，在其旁刺三刺，立刻痊愈。（注：此刺不拘泥于腧穴，只是从颈部大椎开始，从下数脊椎，或开一寸半，或开三寸，夹脊处快速按压，手下感到疼痛，就是针刺处。脊之两旁各刺三刺，病应当自愈。）
邪气客居在足少阳胆经的络脉，使人枢中（髀枢）疼痛，大腿无法抬起。（注：枢中，即髀枢，是足少阳脉所经过的地方。）用毫针刺枢中，寒证则久留针，根据月亮的盈亏决定刺数，立刻痊愈。（注：髀枢中，是足少阳经的环跳穴。如果是寒证，须久留针，则寒邪乃去，所以以月死生为刺数。）
治疗各经针刺经过的部位如果不发病，就用缪刺法。（注：诸经所经过的部位不发病，是说病不在经而在络，所以用缪刺。如果病在经，则称为巨刺。）
耳聋，刺手阳明经；如果无效，刺其通向耳朵前面的脉。（注：这是再次说明手阳明经的耳聋，应当像前面一样刺商阳。刺其通向耳朵前面的脉，手阳明脉正当足少阳经听会穴的分野。）
龋齿痛，刺手阳明经；如果无效，刺其进入牙齿中的脉，立刻痊愈。（注：龋，齿痛。手阳明的脉贯颊入下齿中，所以应当刺大肠经的商阳穴。如果无效，则刺其痛脉进入牙齿中的穴位。按：《甲乙经》注手阳明脉，商阳、二间、三间、合谷、阳溪、偏历、温溜，七穴都主治齿痛。龋，音丘禹切。）
邪气客居在五脏之间，其病症是脉引而痛，时来时止。观察病症，在手足爪甲上进行缪刺。（注：邪气客居在五脏之间，必定各引其经而痛，只要视病处，各取其井穴进行缪刺。）观察其脉，放出血液，隔日刺一次；刺一次不好，刺五次就好了。（注：有血络的，应当刺去其血，次数也一样。）
缪传引起上齿，唇齿寒冷疼痛。观察手背脉中有血的去除它，（注：缪传，是指病在下齿而牵引及上齿。上齿属足阳明，下齿属手阳明。现在上下牵引疼痛，应当观察手阳明之络，有血的先去之。）足阳明经中趾爪甲上一刺，手大指和次指爪甲上各一刺，立刻痊愈，左取右，右取左。（注：足阳明中趾爪甲上，指厉兑穴。手大指次指爪甲上，是手阳明经商阳穴。）
邪气客居在手足少阴、太阴、足阳明之络，这五条络脉都交会于耳中，向上联络左额角，（注：手少阴，心。足少阴，肾。手太阴，肺。足太阴，脾。足阳明，胃。五络都交会于耳中，向上联络左额之角。）五条络脉都衰竭，使人全身脉搏跳动但形体无知觉，状如尸体，有的称为尸厥。（注：五络俱竭，阴阳离散。身脉皆动，筋惕肉 。上下离竭，厥逆气乱，昏愦无知，所以名叫尸厥。）针刺足大趾内侧爪甲上，距离指尖如韭菜叶宽处，（注：足太阴的井穴——隐白穴。）后刺足心，（注：足少阴的井穴——涌泉穴。）后刺足中趾爪甲上各一刺，（注：足阳明的井穴——厉兑穴。）后刺手大指内侧，距离指尖如韭菜叶宽处，（注：手太阴的井穴——少商穴。）后刺手心主，（注：手厥阴的井穴——中冲穴。凡是邪气在心者，都在心之包络，所以取它。）少阴锐骨之端各一刺，立刻痊愈；（注：指神门穴，手少阴经的输穴。）如果无效，用竹管吹其双耳，（注：用小竹管插入对侧耳孔，用力吹，勿使漏气，以此来温助五络，使气可重新通畅。新校正说：按陶隐居说法，吹左耳极三度，再吹右耳三度。）剃下左额角方一寸的头发，烧制成末，用一杯美酒送服，不能喝的灌下去，立刻痊愈。 ，同剃。左角之发，是五络之血余。燔治，烧制为末。饮以美酒，助药力行血气。补以其类，所以可使尸厥立刻痊愈。）
凡是针刺的法度，先观察其经脉，切按而顺从其走向，审察其虚实并调治，不调者用经刺法，（注：病在经的，治疗顺从其经，只审察其虚实并调治。调治，如汤液导引之类皆是。调治而不愈，然后刺其经脉，这叫经刺，也叫巨刺。）有痛而经脉不病的用缪刺法，（注：有痛而经脉不病的，病在大络，所以应当缪刺。）再观察其皮部有血络的，全部取之，这就是缪刺的法度。（注：皮部有血络的，邪在皮肤孙络，所以应当尽取其血。凡是此刺经者，刺大络者，刺皮部血络者，各有其治，所以辨别缪刺的技术法度。）
(Full text of "Liao Ci Lun" from *Su Wen*)
The Yellow Emperor asked: I have heard of "Miao Ci" (Cross-Needling), but do not understand its meaning. What is Miao Ci? (Note: "Miao" means crossing or alternating. Treating the left side by needling the right, and the right side by needling the left, where the needle site is opposite to the disease site, is called Miao Ci. It is used to treat strange pathogens residing in the collaterals.)
Qibo replied: When a pathogen invades the body, it first lodges in the skin and hair; if it remains there without departing, it enters the Sun vessels (fine collateral branches); if it still remains, it enters the Luo vessels (major collaterals); if it continues to remain, it enters the Jing vessels (main meridians), internally connecting with the Zang organs and spreading to the stomach and intestines. This causes both Yin and Yang to be affected, leading to injury of the five Zang organs. This is the sequence of a pathogen entering from the skin and hair and reaching the depth of the five Zang organs. In such cases, one should treat the Jing vessels. (Note: When a pathogen moves from superficial to deep levels, ultimately affecting the Zang organs, treatment should focus on the Jing vessels. Treating the Jing vessels refers to direct needling of the acupoints of the twelve regular meridians, which does not constitute Miao Ci.)
Nowadays, when a pathogen lodges in the skin and hair, enters the Sun vessels, and remains without departing, causing blockage and obstruction, preventing entry into the Jing vessels, it overflows into the Da Luo vessels (large collaterals) and generates strange diseases. (Note: The Da Luo vessels are the branch-like collaterals diverging from the twelve main meridians. Since the disease is located in these branch collaterals and does not follow the main meridians, it is called a "strange pathogen".) When a pathogen lodges in the Da Luo vessels, Qi from the left flows to the right, and Qi from the right flows to the left. It interferes with the meridians above and below, on the left and right, and spreads to the four extremities. Its Qi has no fixed location and does not enter the Shu points of the meridians. This is called Miao Ci. (Note: Branches that run horizontally are called collaterals. When a pathogen lodges in the large collaterals, Qi flows from left to right and right to left. Spreading to the extremities with Qi having no fixed location necessitates the use of Miao Ci.)
The Yellow Emperor said: I wish to know how Miao Ci achieves treating the left by taking the right, and the right by taking the left. How does it differ from Ju Ci (Giant Needling)? Qibo said: When a pathogen lodges in the Jing vessels, excess on the left causes disease on the right, and excess on the right causes disease on the left. There are also cases of shifting symptoms, such as pain on the left persisting while the pulse on the right shows pathology first. In such cases, one must use Ju Ci, ensuring the needle penetrates the Jing vessel, not the Luo vessel. (Note: Both Miao Ci and Ju Ci involve treating the contralateral side. However, Ju Ci targets the major Jing meridians, hence the name "Ju" (Giant). Miao Ci targets the large Luo collaterals, distinct from the Jing meridians, hence the name "Miao" (Crossed/Alternating). Both are used for diseases that shift between left and right. The concept of Ju Ci was explained in Chapter 5 earlier.) Therefore, diseases of the Luo vessels present with pain locations that cross or differ from those of the Jing vessels, hence the name Miao Ci. (Note: Luo vessels are superficial, Jing vessels are deep; Luo vessels run horizontally, Jing vessels run vertically. Thus, their disease sites are crossed.)
The Yellow Emperor said: I wish to know specifically how to perform Miao Ci and what the principles for selecting acupoints are. Qibo said: When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Shaoyin (Kidney) meridian, it causes sudden heart pain, acute distension, and fullness/supporting sensation in the chest and hypochondrium. (Note: The branch of the Foot-Shaoyin Luo vessel travels with the main meridian up to the Kidney, passes through the Liver and Diaphragm, and reaches the Pericardium, causing these symptoms.) If there is no accumulation of pathological products, bleed at the point anterior to Ran Gu (the Ying-Spring point of the Foot-Shaoyin meridian, i.e., Ran Gu BL2 is incorrect contextually here, it is KI2). Wait for the duration of one meal. (Note: For conditions described above but without internal accumulation, needle anterior to Ran Gu, which is KI2 Ran Gu. "Shi Qing" refers to the time taken to eat one meal. The following examples follow this pattern. Wang Bing stated: Bleeding significantly at this point induces immediate hunger and desire to eat.) If ineffective, apply Miao Ci (treat left with right, right with left). (Note: If the condition persists, take KI2 on the right for left-sided illness, and KI2 on the left for right-sided illness. This is the method of Miao Ci. Apply similarly to others.) For newly onset diseases, five treatments will suffice. (Note: For new diseases, the pathogen is shallow. Even if not cured immediately, five sessions are sufficient.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Hand-Shaoyang (Sanjiao) meridian, it causes throat obstruction, tongue retraction, dry mouth, mental restlessness, pain along the lateral aspect of the arm, and inability to raise the hand above the head. (Note: The branch of the Hand-Shaoyang meridian emerges above the Clavicle, ascends the neck, enters the chest, and connects with the Heart Master; the main meridian runs between the two bones of the forearm, passes through the elbow and shoulder, causing these symptoms.) Needle the Jing-Well points (Guan CHong SJ16) on the nails of the ring finger and little finger (text notes correction from middle/ring to little/ring), at a distance from the nail corner like the width of a leek leaf, one insertion each. (Note: "Middle finger" should be interpreted as the little finger, referring to the Jing-Well point Guan CHong SJ16 of the Hand-Shaoyang meridian. Needling both sides is indicated by "one each". "Ci" refers to the mark of needle insertion. Those with strong constitution recover immediately; the elderly recover after a short while. Apply Miao Ci. Newly onset diseases resolve within a few days. (Note: The previous mention of "one each on both sides" referred to bilateral disease. Here, "left treat right, right treat left" refers to unilateral bias. All are Miao Ci methods. "New disease resolves in a few days" implies that while some may not heal instantly, new conditions resolve within days.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Jueyin (Liver) meridian, it causes sudden hernia and severe pain. (Note: The branch of the Foot-Jueyin Luo vessel follows the tibia up to the scrotum and penis, causing hernia pain.) Needle the Jing-Well point (Da Dun LR14) on the nail of the big toe, at the junction with the flesh, one insertion each. Men recover immediately; women recover after a short while. Apply Miao Ci. (Note: Men are Yang and Women are Yin. Yang Qi arrives quickly, Yin Qi arrives slowly.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Taiyang (Bladder) meridian, it causes pain in the head, neck, and shoulders. (Note: The branch of the Foot-Taiyang meridian descends from the vertex, exits separately down the neck, and follows the interior of the shoulder blades, causing these ailments.) Needle the Jing-Well point (Zhi Yin BL67) on the nail of the little toe, at the junction with the flesh, one insertion each. Recovery is immediate. (Note: Jing-Well point of Foot-Taiyang is Zhi Yin BL67.) If ineffective, needle San Jiaohai BL63 (located below the lateral malleolus), applying Miao Ci. Recovery occurs after the duration of one meal. (Note: San Jiaohai BL63 is on the Foot-Taiyang meridian below the lateral malleolus. "Three ci" refers to three insertions. One insertion per day until efficacy is achieved. See "Shi Qing" above.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Hand-Yangming (Large Intestine) meridian, it causes chest fullness, wheezing, and heat in the chest. (Note: The Hand-Yangming meridian descends into the Clavicle, connects with the Lung, passes below the Diaphragm; its branch ascends from the Clavicle to the neck, causing these symptoms.) Needle the Jing-Well point (Shang Yang LI1) on the nails of the index and thumb fingers, at a distance from the nail corner like the width of a leek leaf, one insertion each. Apply Miao Ci. Recovery occurs after the duration of one meal. (Note: Jing-Well point of Hand-Yangming is Shang Yang LI1.)
When a pathogen lodges between the arm and palm, causing inability to flex, needle behind the ankle. (Note: Pathogen between arm and palm involves the Hand-Jueyin meridian. "Behind the ankle" refers to Neiguan PC6, located posterior to the wrist crease. Neiguan is the Luo vessel of the Hand-Jueyin meridian, so it should be selected.) Press with the finger first until tenderness is felt, then needle. Determine the number of insertions based on the waxing and waning of the moon. On the first day of the waxing moon, one insertion; second day, two insertions; fifteenth day, fifteen insertions; sixteenth day, fourteen insertions. (Note: The number of insertions follows the lunar cycle. From the 1st to the 15th, the moon waxes (Sheng Shu), increasing by one insertion daily, reaching fifteen on the 15th. From the 16th to the 30th, the moon wanes (Si Shu), decreasing by one insertion daily, ending with one insertion at month's end. Daily needling adjusts according to the new and full moons.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Foot-Yangqiao vessel, it causes eye pain starting from the inner canthus. (Note: The Yin and Yang Qiao vessels originate from the heel, ascend, and connect to the inner canthus, causing these symptoms.) Needle Er Hun San BL62 (half cun below the lateral malleolus), two insertions each. Apply Miao Ci. Recovery occurs after the time it takes to walk ten Li. (Note: Half cun below the lateral malleolus is Shen Mai BL62 of the Foot-Taiyang meridian, the source of the Yang Qiao vessel, making it suitable for needling.)
If a person falls and suffers trauma, leaving evil blood inside, causing abdominal fullness and inability to urinate or defecate: First administer purgative medicine to expel stasis. This injury damages the Jueyin meridian above and the Shaoyin collateral below. Bleed the vessels below the medial malleolus and anterior to Ran Gu. (Note: Purgatives remove internal stasis. Trauma affects sinews and bones. Upper injury to Jueyin because Liver governs sinews; lower injury to Shaoyin because Kidney governs bones. Bleeding anterior to Ran Gu addresses the Shaoyin collateral.) Then needle the arterial pulse on the dorsum of the foot (Tai Chong LR3 of Foot-Jueyin). Note: Wang Bing identified this as Chong Yang ST42 of Foot-Yangming, which seems irrelevant here. If ineffective, needle Da Dun LR14 (Jing-Well of Foot-Jueyin) at the hairline of the toes, one insertion each, bleeding immediately upon recovery. Apply Miao Ci. (Note: Da Dun LR14 is the Jing-Well point.) For symptoms of sadness, fright, and unhappiness due to trauma damaging Yin and scattering Spirit, use the same needling method. (Note: Falling injuries damage Yin and scatter Spirit, leading to sadness and fright.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Hand-Yangming meridian, it causes deafness and intermittent hearing loss. (Note: The branch of the Hand-Yangming Luo vessel enters the ear, causing deafness.) Needle Shang Yang LI1 (Jing-Well of Hand-Yangming) on the index and thumb nails, one insertion each. Hearing returns immediately. (Note: Shang Yang LI1 is the Jing-Well point.) If ineffective, needle Zhong Chong PC9 (Jing-Well of Hand-Jueyin) on the middle finger nail. Hearing returns immediately. (Note: Zhong Chong PC9 is the Jing-Well point of Hand-Jueyin. The Heart Master meridian emerges behind the ear and connects with Shaoyang below Wan Gu, justifying its selection.) If hearing is completely lost (not intermittent), do not needle. (Note: Intermittent hearing indicates treatability; complete loss indicates exhaustion of Luo Qi, making needling useless.) For a sensation of wind in the ears (despite deafness), needle as described above, applying Miao Ci. (Note: Wind-like sensations indicate residual Qi flow, warranting cross-needling.)
For Bi syndrome with wandering pain and no fixed location, needle the painful areas between the muscle bundles. Determine the number of insertions based on the lunar cycle. The practitioner should adjust the number of insertions according to the abundance or deficiency of Qi. Exceeding the prescribed number depletes Qi; falling short fails to expel the pathogen. Apply Miao Ci. Stop when cured; if not cured, repeat. (Note: Needling painful areas between muscles involves locating the affected collaterals for Miao Ci. Lunar cycle rules: Waxing phase increases insertions daily to fifteen on the 15th; Waning phase decreases insertions daily. See previous explanation regarding climate-based needling frequencies and specific meridian protocols for optimal application.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Yangming (Stomach) meridian, it causes rhinitis, epistaxis, and coldness in the upper teeth. (Note: The Foot-Yangming meridian originates at the nose, descends along the nasal exterior, and enters the upper teeth, causing these collateral symptoms.) Needle Li Dui ST45 (Jing-Well of Foot-Yangming) on the nails of the second and third toes, one insertion each. Apply Miao Ci. (Note: Second and third toes correspond to Foot-Yangming Jing-Well points like Li Dui ST45.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Shaoyang (Gallbladder) meridian, it causes flank pain, dyspnea, coughing, and sweating. (Note: The branch of the Foot-Shaoyang meridian descends through the chest, pierces the diaphragm, and follows the costal region, causing these symptoms.) Needle Xiao Kun GB44 (Jing-Well of Foot-Shaoyang) on the nails of the fourth and fifth toes, one insertion each. Dyspnea resolves immediately; sweating stops immediately. For coughing, keep warm and consume warm food/drink for one day. Apply Miao Ci. Condition resolves immediately. If ineffective, repeat. (Note: "Warm clothing and diet" emphasizes keeping warm.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Shaoyin meridian, it causes sore throat, inability to swallow food, unprovoked anger, and Qi rushing upward to the贲 (Bēn) area. (Note: Foot-Shaoyin meridian follows the throat, causing sore throat. Its branch ascends to the Pericardium, causing anger and Qi rising to the贲门. Kidney Water deficiency leads to blazing Yin Fire, causing these symptoms. "Nei" means intake/swallow. "Ben" sounds like Ben/Mi.) Needle Yong Quan KI1 (Jing-Well of Foot-Shaoyin) in the center of the sole, three insertions each side, totaling six. Recovery is immediate. Apply Miao Ci. (Note: Yong Quan KI1 is the Jing-Well point. Bilateral pain requires three insertions each; unilateral pain uses Miao Ci.) For swelling in the throat, inability to swallow saliva, or inability to expectorate saliva, bleed at Ran Gu KI2 (Ying-Spring of Foot-Shaoyin). Recovery is immediate. Apply Miao Ci. (Note: Anterior to Ran Gu is KI2 Ran Gu.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Taiyin (Spleen) meridian, it causes lower back pain radiating to the lower abdomen and hypochondrium, preventing supine breathing. (Note: Foot-Taiyin Luo vessel enters the abdomen, spreads to the chest/hypochondrium, and attaches to the spine, causing these symptoms. "Kong" means pulling/tugging. , lower hypochondrium.) Needle Yao Shu DU35 (at the sacral hiatus, above the gluteal muscles). Determine insertions by lunar cycle. Recovery is immediate upon needle withdrawal. Apply Miao Ci. (Note: Yao Shu is midline Du Meridian. "Left treat right" likely refers to adjacent Bladder Meridian points near Yao Shu. See detailed explanations later. "Shen" is pronounced Shen.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Taiyang meridian, it causes spasms, back stiffness, and pain radiating to the flanks. (Note: Foot-Taiyang meridian flanks the spine and reaches the waist, causing spasms/stiffness. Its sinews enter the axilla, causing flank pain.) Start needling from the neck, count the vertebrae, press firmly along the spine. Where tenderness is felt, needle three times nearby. Recovery is immediate. (Note: This method is not limited to specific acupoints. Starting from Da Zhu GV14, count vertebrae downwards. Press paraspinal areas. Needle tender spots. Three insertions on each side of the spine cure the condition.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessel of the Foot-Shaoyang meridian, it causes pain in the Hui Shu (hip joint pivot) and inability to lift the thigh. (Note: Hui Shu refers to the hip joint, traversed by the Foot-Shaoyang meridian.) Needle Huan Tiao GB30 (Hui Shu) with a filiform needle. For cold patterns, retain the needle for a long time. Determine insertions by lunar cycle. Recovery is immediate. (Note: Huan Tiao GB30 is in the hip pivot. Long retention dispels cold. Lunar cycle determines frequency.)
For diseases in the pathways of various meridians that do not manifest as pathology in the meridians themselves, use Miao Ci. (Note: If the pathway is unaffected, the disease is in the collaterals, hence Miao Ci. If the disease is in the meridian, it is Ju Ci.)
For deafness, needle Hand-Yangming. If ineffective, needle the channel emerging before the ear. (Note: Reiterating Hand-Yangming deafness treatment via Shang Yang LI1. The channel emerging before the ear corresponds to Ting Hui GB2 of the Foot-Shaoyang meridian.)
For toothache (Qu), needle Hand-Yangming. If ineffective, needle the channel entering the teeth. Recovery is immediate. (Note: Qu means toothache. Hand-Yangming enters the lower teeth. Needle Shang Yang LI1. If ineffective, needle the specific painful channel entering the teeth. *Jia Yi Jing* lists Shang Yang, Er Jian, San Jian, He Gu, Yang Xi, Pian Li, Wen Liu as effective for toothache.)
When a pathogen lodges between the five Zang organs, causing meridian-pulling pain that comes and goes: Observe the condition and apply Miao Ci to the Jing-Well points on the hands and feet. (Note: Pathogens between Zang organs pull on their respective meridians. Treat by needling the Jing-Well points of the affected limbs.) Observe the vessels and bleed them. Needle every other day. If one session fails, five sessions will cure. (Note: Bleed visible collaterals as indicated.)
For Mu Chuan (cross-transmission) causing upper tooth pain and lip/cold sensitivity: Observe the dorsal hand vessels for blood stasis and remove it. (Note: Mu Chuan refers to lower tooth pathology referring to upper teeth. Upper teeth belong to Foot-Yangming; lower to Hand-Yangming. Cross-pain requires observing Hand-Yangming collaterals for blood stasis.) Needle Li Dui ST45 (Foot-Yangming Jing-Well) on the second toe nail, and Shang Yang LI1 (Hand-Yangming Jing-Well) on the index/thumb nails, one insertion each. Apply Miao Ci. Recovery is immediate. (Note: Li Dui ST45 is on the second toe. Shang Yang LI1 is on the index/thumb.)
When a pathogen lodges in the Luo vessels of the Hand-Foot Shaoyin, Hand-Foot Taiyin, and Foot-Yangming meridians, these five collaterals converge in the ear and ascend to the left frontal angle. (Note: Hand-Shaoyin (Heart), Foot-Shaoyin (Kidney), Hand-Taiyin (Lung), Foot-Taiyin (Spleen), Foot-Yangming (Stomach). These five collaterals meet in the ear and connect to the left frontal angle.) If all five collaterals are exhausted, the patient exhibits pulsation throughout the body but lacks consciousness, resembling a corpse, known as Shi Jue (Corpse Syncope). (Note: Exhaustion of five collaterals leads to separation of Yin and Yang. Pulsation with unconsciousness indicates chaotic Qi reversal and spirit dispersion.) Needle Yin Bai SP1 (Jing-Well of Foot-Taiyin) on the medial big toe nail, one insertion. Then needle Yong Quan KI1 (Jing-Well of Foot-Shaoyin) on the sole. Then needle Li Dui ST45 (Jing-Well of Foot-Yangming) on the second toe nail, one insertion. Then needle Shao Shang LU11 (Jing-Well of Hand-Taiyin) on the medial thumb nail, one insertion. Then needle Zhong Chong PC9 (Jing-Well of Hand-Jueyin/Pericardium). (Note: Pathogens in the Heart affect the Pericardium, so this point is chosen.) Then needle Shen Men HT7 (Shu-Stream of Hand-Shaoyin) at the radial end of the wrist, one insertion. Recovery is immediate. (Note: Shen Men is the Shu-Stream point of Hand-Shaoyin.) If ineffective, blow air into both ears using a bamboo tube. (Note: Insert small bamboo tubes into ear canals and blow forcefully to warm and restore Qi flow in the five collaterals. Tao Hongjing suggested blowing left ear three times, then right ear three times.) Shave one square cun of hair from the left frontal angle, burn it to ash, and mix with a cup of fine wine. Drink or force-feed. Recovery is immediate. (Note: Hair from the left angle represents the "residue of blood" from the five collaterals. Burning creates ash. Wine promotes Qi and Blood circulation. Using similar substances to tonify restores Corpse Syncope.)
General principles of needling: First examine the meridians, palpate and follow their course, assess deficiency/excess, and regulate. If regulation fails, use Jing Ci (Meridian Needling/Ju Ci). (Note: Disease in meridians is treated by regulating the meridian based on deficiency/excess. Regulation includes herbal decoctions and guidance exercises. If regulation fails, needle the meridian directly, called Jing Ci or Ju Ci.) For pain without meridian pathology, use Miao Ci. (Note: Pain without meridian involvement indicates disease in large collaterals, requiring Miao Ci.) Observe the skin regions for blood stasis in collaterals and treat them completely. This constitutes the methodology of Miao Ci. (Note: Blood stasis in skin regions indicates pathogens in cutaneous Sun collaterals. Complete removal of stasis is required. Distinctions between needling meridians, large collaterals, and cutaneous collaterals define the techniques of Miao Ci.)