Method of acupoint selection for fine needle therapy in treating foot inversion

Inverted foot is commonly treated with fine needle therapy by selecting two acupoints: Juegu (GB39) and Kunlun (BL60). Fine needle therapy is a major and commonly used treatment within traditional acupuncture medicine and forms the core of needling techniques. It is recommended that procedures be performed by trained professionals. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Under the guidance of a physician, the patient assumes an appropriate position to fully expose the area to be needled.

2. The physician locates the Juegu point on the lateral aspect of the patient's lower leg, 3 cun (approximately four finger widths) above the tip of the external malleolus, in the depression anterior to the fibula; or locates the Kunlun point posterior to the external malleolus, in the depression between the tip of the external malleolus and the Achilles tendon.

3. After disinfecting the acupoint skin with a 75% alcohol swab, the physician uses the left thumb or index finger to press and stabilize the acupoint, while holding the needle with the right hand, placing it close to the nail edge of the left finger.

4. The needle is inserted perpendicularly into the skin at a 90-degree angle to the skin surface. The left thumb and index finger apply quick downward pressure to rapidly insert the needle vertically, then the right hand gently rotates the needle handle while advancing the needle deeper.

5. The needle is retained for a short period. Before removal, slightly rotate the needle handle until a relaxed, smooth sensation is felt beneath the needle, then withdraw the needle and immediately press the acupoint with a sterile cotton ball.

Note: Acupuncture is contraindicated for pregnant women, patients during menstruation, individuals with extreme physical weakness, severe diabetes, or bleeding disorders.