Which point should be avoided to reduce the risk of injury while needling?

Which point should be avoided to reduce the risk of injury while needling?

• A. ST-1 (cheng qi)
• B. SP-11 (ji men)
• C. REN-15 (jiu wei)
• D. BL-23 (shen shu)

Answer: (B)

The choice to avoid needling SP-11 (ji men) is correct because of its anatomical location near major vessels and sensitive structures. SP-11 is located on the medial aspect of the thigh, where the femoral artery and vein are situated. Needling in this area poses a risk of penetrating these large blood vessels, which could lead to significant bleeding or hematoma formation. In contrast, the other points listed (ST-1, REN-15, and BL-23) either have less risk associated with their needling or are more commonly practiced with adequate precautions in place. For example, ST-1 is located near the eye but is generally needled with careful technique to minimize risks, while REN-15 is more centrally located on the abdomen, and BL-23 is positioned over the lower back. These points can be needled with a good understanding of their anatomical relationships and with proper care.

The choice to avoid needling SP-11 (ji men) is correct because of its anatomical location near major vessels and sensitive structures. SP-11 is located on the medial aspect of the thigh, where the femoral artery and vein are situated. Needling in this area poses a risk of penetrating these large blood vessels, which could lead to significant bleeding or hematoma formation.

In contrast, the other points listed (ST-1, REN-15, and BL-23) either have less risk associated with their needling or are more commonly practiced with adequate precautions in place. For example, ST-1 is located near the eye but is generally needled with careful technique to minimize risks, while REN-15 is more centrally located on the abdomen, and BL-23 is positioned over the lower back. These points can be needled with a good understanding of their anatomical relationships and with proper care.