About Japanese Acupuncture
Japanese acupuncture arose in the 6th century, when Japan was introduced to classical Chinese medicine. During this time, the Japanese acupuncture practitioners developed a unique style based on Classical Chinese medical theories.
The Japanese Acupuncture Style
A key distinction in Japanese acupuncture is the careful insertion of the needle to avoid pain or discomfort to the patient. Additionally, the Japanese acupuncture practitioner relies on palpation of the body, and specifically the abdomen (or “Hara”), to locate the origin of the disease or illness. Palpation plays an integral role in the diagnosis of disease in the Japanese acupuncture style.
Practitioners of Japanese acupuncture strive to treat the root cause of the disease, along with the branch or symptoms of a specific illness. The practitioner goes beyond simply alleviating symptoms to treating the causative factors that lead to the specific illness or disorder. The Japanese acupuncture style is comprehensive and thorough, so as to lead to the elimination of the disease or condition.
Kiiko Matsumoto is a world-renowned teacher and the foremost proponent of Japanese Acupuncture. He has written several texts used in most schools of acupuncture today, and lectures extensively to ensure the Japanese acupuncture style is translated properly.
Japanese Acupuncture is a style that is constantly evolving with a foundation in Classical Chinese medical principles, but an awareness of the Western perspective on health and healing.