Ultrasound in locating and characterising acupuncture points – a case example on the second posterior sacral foramen

This study aims to explore the potential use of ultrasound in locating the second posterior sacral foramen acupuncture point, quantifying depth of insertion and describing surrounding anatomical structures. We performed the acupuncture needle insertion on a study team member. There were four steps to our experiment. First, the acupuncturist located the acupuncture point by palpation. Second, we used the ultrasound machine to visualise the structures surrounding the location of the acupuncture point, and measure the depth required for needle insertion. Third, the acupuncturist inserted the acupuncture needle into the acupuncture point at an angle of 30°. Fourth, we did another ultrasound scan to ensure that the needle was in the desired location. Results suggested that ultrasound could be used to locate the acupuncture point and estimate depth of needle insertion. The needle was inserted to 4.0cm to reach the surface of the sacral foramen. Based on Pythagoras’ theorem, taking a needle insertion angle of 30°, needle insertion depth of 4.0cm, the estimated perpendicular depth is 1.8cm. Ultrasound scan corroborated the depth of 1.85 cm. Using ultrasound-guided technique for needle insertion in acupuncture practice could help standardise the treatment. Clinicians and students would be able to visualise and measure the depth of the sacral foramen acupuncture point, to guide the depth of needle insertion. This methodological guide could also be used to create a standard treatmen...
Source: Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies - Category: Complementary Medicine Source Type: research