Steps of plum blossom needle bloodletting therapy

Plum blossom needle bloodletting is one of the therapeutic methods in traditional Chinese medicine. It primarily involves using a plum blossom needle to prick specific acupoints on the body, causing a small amount of blood to emerge from the skin's surface. This method is used to achieve therapeutic effects for various conditions. The specific procedure is as follows:

1. Before bloodletting, the patient should assume an appropriate position based on the site of treatment and their physical condition.

2. Prepare a plum blossom needle, several alcohol swabs, and dry cotton balls. Routinely disinfect the skin at the bloodletting site, and ensure that the needle and forceps are properly sterilized according to standard procedures.

3. During the procedure, first stabilize the treatment area with one hand. Then use the plum blossom needle to tap the skin until slight oozing of blood occurs. Simultaneously, the practitioner should gently press around the site with their fingers to encourage bleeding, wiping away the blood with dry cotton balls. Continue until the blood appears bright red. If excessive bleeding occurs, apply pressure with a dry cotton ball for a short time to stop the bleeding. Typically, the total blood loss should be limited to a few drops or 1–2 ml.

4. After completing the procedure, disinfect the puncture site with alcohol and clean and store the instruments properly.

This procedure requires professional skill. To avoid potential harm to the body, it is recommended to perform it only under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.