AP Acupuncture Point Location & Meridians 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which acupuncture point is located on the hand between the thumb and index finger?
- LU7
- LI4 (Correct answer)
- PC6
- HT7
Correct answer: LI4
LI4, known as Hegu, is a prominent acupuncture point located on the dorsum of the hand, in the web space between the thumb and index finger. It is a highly versatile point, widely used for pain relief, headaches, facial disorders, and to boost the body's defensive Qi.
Question 2: Which meridian begins in the chest, travels down the arm, and ends at the radial side of the thumb?
- Heart
- Large Intestine
- Lung (Correct answer)
- Pericardium
Correct answer: Lung
The Lung meridian originates in the middle jiao (chest), descends to the large intestine, then ascends to the stomach, diaphragm, and lungs. It then travels superficially down the anterior-lateral aspect of the arm, ending at the radial side of the thumb (LU11). This pathway reflects its connection to respiration and the upper limbs.
Question 3: Which extraordinary vessel is often used to treat disorders of the midline of the body?
- Governing Vessel
- Conception Vessel (Correct answer)
- Penetrating Vessel
- Girdle Vessel
Correct answer: Conception Vessel
The Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) is one of the eight extraordinary vessels, running along the anterior midline of the body. It is often used to treat disorders of the abdomen, chest, throat, and reproductive system, as it connects to all Yin meridians and governs the Yin of the body.
Question 4: Which point is commonly used for calming the mind and is located on the wrist crease?
- PC6
- HT7 (Correct answer)
- LU9
- LI11
Correct answer: HT7
HT7, known as Shenmen (Spirit Gate), is a vital acupuncture point located on the ulnar end of the transverse wrist crease, in the depression on the radial side of the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon. It is widely recognized for its profound calming effect on the mind, treating insomnia, anxiety, and emotional imbalances by nourishing the Heart and settling the Shen.
Question 5: The Stomach meridian travels along which area of the body?
- Posterior arm
- Lateral leg
- Anterior leg and torso (Correct answer)
- Spine
Correct answer: Anterior leg and torso
The Stomach meridian is one of the longest and most extensive meridians, beginning below the eye, descending along the face, neck, and chest. It then continues down the anterior aspect of the torso and the anterior-lateral aspect of the leg, ending at the second toe, reflecting its broad influence on digestion and overall body nourishment.
Question 6: Which meridian is associated with the bladder and runs along the back?
- Gallbladder
- Bladder (Correct answer)
- Kidney
- Small Intestine
Correct answer: Bladder
The Bladder meridian is the longest and most superficial meridian in the body, running along the entire length of the back, from the inner canthus of the eye, over the head, down the posterior aspect of the neck and back, and along the posterior aspect of the leg to the little toe. It is closely associated with the Kidneys and plays a significant role in regulating water metabolism and back pain.
Which acupuncture point is located on the hand between the thumb and index finger?