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Acupuncturists first encountering Applied Channel Theory are sometimes confused about apparent differences between Dr. Wang's diagnostic approach and more common diagnostic models which focus on patterns arising from the Zang Fu (脏腑/yin-yang organs). In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss how a diagnostic model which places channels at the center can be reconciled with so-called "TCM" style. In fact, the discussion explores how a familiarity with Zang Fu diagnosis is indispensable. Building on the foundations of Zang Fu theory, a channel-based diagnostic process  (including palpation) generates clinical flexibility.

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In this episode Jason Robertson attempts to get into Yefim Gamgoneisvili's head.  In the practice of East Asian Medicine, fine differentiation of herb properties, channel function and point function can make the difference between a mediocre treatment and the best possible results. With almost 40 years of clinical experience, Yefim's choice of point pairs sometimes involves fairly fine differentiation in diagnosis and desired treatment effects. By comparing the effects of using PC-6 with LR-5 vs. SP-4, some interesting insights into the Jueyin, Taiyin and the extraordinary vessels come out.

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Nyssa Tang discuss some recent Shao Yin/Shao Yang cases where the channel changes made them rethink the pathophysiology and location of the disease. They discuss their evolving understanding of the inter-related Qi dynamics in these two systems and how symptoms manifest when they are dysregulated.

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Jonathan talks to Dr. Meng Xiao-nan from the Huguosi TCM Hospital about his recent clinical research on the treatment of post-stroke shoulder and hand syndrome. His research studied the use of Applied Channel Theory, such as channel palpation to achieve more precise diagnosis, while also applying Dr. Wang’s methods of acupuncture and different massage techniques for more effective results.

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In this episode Nyssa Tang and Jason Robertson discuss two less-often remembered xi-cleft points. KI-8/交信 /jiāo xìn  is the xi cleft of yin qiao vessel. KI-9 筑宾 /zhù bīn is the xi cleft of yin wei vessel.  Dr. Wang's experience with these points is discussed as are clinical cases from Nyssa and Jason.  

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In this episode, Jason Robertson and Jonathan Chang discuss his recent trip to teach at the yearly international congress in Rothenburg Germany.  Jason asks Jonathan about his presentations on cardiology and the concept of 'constraint'  (鬱 yù).  For those interested in diving deeper into Jonathan's presentation, see his article here

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 In this episode, Yefim Gamgoneishvili and Jason Robertson discuss the centrality of placing a 'primary symptom' (主 症 zhǔ zhèng) at the heart of the diagnostic process.  Dr. Wang Juyi would often emphasize that the careful choice of a primary symptom was the crucial first step in the process of perceiving symptom-pattern-structure (症候结构  zhèng hòu jié gòu).  While many students and practitioners learn this concept early in their training, we all can make the common clinical error of diffusing the effects of acupuncture by needling single points for single symptoms. 

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In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the treatment of acute knee pain.  Yefim shares his general approach to the treatment of this type of disorder, from treatment methods to diagnosis with the use of channel palpation. 

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In this episode Jonathan shares a surprising belching case where channel palpation changed the course of his diagnosis and understanding of the patient’s physiology. He and Nyssa also discuss how Dr. Wang differentiated burps, the P6/SP4 point combination and its many uses. 

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss a case which shines a light on the interesting role channel palpation might play in Chinese herbal medicine.  What seemed like a fairly straightforward gynecological case using Wen Jing Tang (温经汤) offered potential insight into the Yang Ming system.  One of Dr. Wang's hopes was to integrate channel palpation more methodically into Chinese herbal medical diagnosis and strategy. To that end, Dr. Wang used herbal formulas in some of his clinical cases but felt that the work was not finished. We're hoping that those listening might find ways to build experience using this approach to evaluate the mechanisms of formulas in their clinics. 

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In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson have a dialogue on the concept of qi in the channels.  Conclusions are difficult but the idea that there is a physiological process (or connectivity/通/tōng) taking place within the anatomical spaces of the acupuncture channels was a foundational concept for Dr. Wang Juyi.  Questions such as "how might think about the effects of acupuncture needles on the local anatomy" and "what kind of concepts did Dr. Wang use to explain qi in the channels" are considered. In any case, a conception of acupuncture without a serious  engagement with these concepts may lead to less effective clinical applications.

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang describes to Jason Robertson interesting cases from his recent teaching in Spain, Poland and Canada.  In the process, a discussion arises regarding the importance of focusing on a 'chief complaint' or 'primary symptom' (主症 zhǔ zhèng) in order to construct a 'symptom-pattern-structure' (證候結構 zhèng hòu jié gòu).  For much more on diagnostic strategy, please see/download Jason and Jonathan's article from The Lantern - Home | The Lantern

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In this episode Jonathan and Nyssa talk about two recent gynaecological cases. The cases are different according to the general pathology, channel changes and points selected. At the same time, the evolution of the treatments is described in detail, as the points that are selected shift as the patient’s condition changes. 

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In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the extraordinary vessels, with a focus on Dr. Wang’s understanding of the Yin Qiao. Clinical application of KI-6 to regulate this vessel is also described. 

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In this episode Jonathan and Nyssa share some recent gynecology cases from their clinics using only acupuncture and moxibustion, and discuss the importance of nutrition in building healthy blood. 

They also discuss how Dr. Wang respected and uplifted acupuncture as a powerful medicine that deserved the status of herbs in the clinic.  

Hope you enjoy the conversation!

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In this episode Jonathan and Jason discuss the fascinating synergy of the annual TCM Kongress held in Rothenburg Germany.  This event was the last place Dr. Wang taught internationally in 2014 and one he enjoyed immensely.  This year, Jason participated in a roundtable discussion and demonstration of palpation in East Asian medicine. In addition, he discussed the anatomy and physiology of the Jueyin system as described in classical texts with Italian sinologist Giulia Boschi.  For more information on the Kongress see   Home - TCM Kongress Rothenburg (tcm-kongress.de). 

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang talks to Dr. Meng Xiaonan about his experiences becoming a doctor at a TCM hospital in Beijing. Later in the episode, Dr. Meng answers some listeners' questions about the treatment of post-stroke patients. 

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson remember Dr. Wang on the annual holiday known as "Tomb Sweeping Day"  (清明節- Qing Ming Jie).  In the spirit of remembrance, Jon and Jason reflect on one of Dr. Wang's favorite quotes from the Neijing.  Ling Shu chapter one describes the very nature of  "channels/points [which are] where spirit qi moves, exits and enters [and are] not [the same as] skin, flesh, tendons and bones" （所言節者，神氣之所遊行出入也，非皮肉筋骨也）.

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In this episode, Yefim Gamgoneishvili and Jason Robertson discuss the much-debated question regarding 'tonification/補 bǔ' in acupuncture. Specifically, the question often arises regarding whether or not we can actually tonify using acupuncture (or moxa) or whether 'true' deficiency requires herbal medicine or dietary supplementation.  In this episode, Yefim also discusses how a practitioner might assess whether a given point is in a state of 'excess' (實 shí) or 'deficiency' (虚 xū).

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In this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Jonathan Chang and Nyssa Tang chat about an eye twitching case that illustrates an aspect of the yin-yang relationship between the Jue Yin and Shao Yang. 

The conversation also meanders into some observations about channel pathophysiology post-Covid and Dr. Wang Ju-Yi’s needling technique at DU14. 

Hope you enjoy the conversation!

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In this episode, Jonathan talks with Dr. Rodrigo Aranda about his experiences treating post-Covid patients in Chile. Four common categories of patients that are typically seen are discussed (chronic fatigue, IBS, peripheral neuropathy and cough), including the  common point combinations used. 

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson describe a common point pairing strategy used by Dr. Wang.  Namely, what might be done when a presenting pattern fails to fit perfectly into categories of 'excess' or 'deficiency'.  In these situations, more of a 'regulating' treatment is called for where the channels and organs are cleared without depleting. This discussion provides a broad overview of how these patterns might look in each of the six channels.  In addition, some guidelines for creating innovative point combinations are described.  

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One of Dr. Wang’s most useful analogies for describing the physiology of the channels is the classic bamboo steamer that is a common sight at dumpling and bao shops in China. It’s a useful image for understanding how the channels support and influence each other to maintain a healthy internal environment. 

In this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Jonathan and Nyssa share two cases where the lid of the steamer is opened to vent the Shao Yang. 

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In this episode, Jonathan talks to Professor Zhang Wei-bo (张维波) about his research on the channels, which he calls the "Interstice-Interstitial Fluid" School of thought. His research has focused on the circulation of interstitial fluids within the channels, with recent research analyzing the unique content within these fluids and their relationship with the channel functions. 

Professor Zhang is a researcher and doctoral supervisor at the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences. His major is biomechanics, and his research focuses on the biophysical study of acupuncture and meridians.  

For more information on Professor Zhang's research:

1) Visit our website -- www.channelpalpation.org/publications-articles

2) Professor Zhang's WeChat Channel: 经络之声

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In Lingshu Chapter 18, the Neijing describes each of the three 'burners' (焦 jiao) in the trunk of the body as having what Dr. Wang described as 'environments'.  In that text, the middle burner is described as a 'pickling pot' (漚 ou). In this discussion, Jonathan and Jason discuss a variety of common patterns and physiological concepts related to this central area of post-natal qi creation.  Cases are described, questions are posed and, as usual, there is more to explore in the clinic!

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In this episode, Jonathan talks to Dr. Meng Xiao Nan from the Huguosi TCM Hospital about his use of Applied Channel Theory in the treatment of post-stroke patients.

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In this episode, Mei and Jonathan answer some listeners’ questions. A few topics are covered, such as Dr. Wang Ju-yi’s approach to tonifying and draining points, point selection and changes observed to the channels over the course of treatments. 

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Dr. Wang Ju-Yi always reminded his students to see acupuncture points like friends. It takes time to learn their character and personality, tendencies in activity, needle sensation, and how each point should feel when palpating for their location. In this latest episode, Jonathan and Nyssa chat about some point friends  they have re-visited recently in their clinics, like PC-6 and LR-5, and, how channel palpation helps to re-evaluate their functions. 

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss an unusual recent case.  Some have noted that post-Covid patterns may involve the Shaoyin channel. When this pattern emerges, it often includes more familiar symptoms of insomnia, heart palpitations and some kinds of tinnitus. In this case, the primary complaint was a deep pain in the left shoulder joint.     

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April 5th, 2022 was the Tomb Sweeping Day （清明节）.  Jonathan shares some thoughts and memories of Professor Wang Ju-yi, who passed away in August 2017.

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In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan talk about the difference between treating channel sinew disorders with the Tai Yang and Jue Yin. Different strategies and point combos are discussed, illustrated with a  couple recent clinical cases.  

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In this episode Jonathan Chang begins by asking Jason Robertson about an article he wrote for the Journal of Chinese Medicine (https://www.channelpalpation.org/s/Point-Pair-Synergy-and-Defensive-Qi.pdf).

In the course of discussing the article, Jon and Jason reflect upon  just a few of the concepts surrounding clinical application of defensive qi (衛氣 wèi qì) theory in East Asian medicine.  While avoiding  assigning  one-to-one equivalency of  'defensive qi' to the  'immune system', cases are described where complex disorders might be viewed through the prism of lung-kidney physiology.     

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss two unusual cases- one from Dr. Wang’s clinic and another from Jonathan’s clinic in Beijing.  An analysis of these cases leads to a review of extraordinary vessel theory, modified point locations and some insights into the types of situations where extraordinary vessel theory can help unwind a difficult case.

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Does this fall season have you re-assessing and returning to your routines and rhythms? In this episode, Jon and Nyssa talk about the seasonal affect on our Lung Tai Yin systems and things that we can do to support our bodies and minds. 

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson each discuss a recent case of temporal (Shaoyang) headache from their clinics.  Despite the similar location of the headaches, channel selection varied as the underlying patterns were actually quite different. Palpation of distal channels and local areas on the head are discussed.  

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In this episode, Mei and Jonathan discuss Dr. Wang's case study book 《王居易针灸医案讲习录》。They discuss their inspiration for working on this project with Dr. Wang, including talking about some of the clinical cases that initiated the writing of this book. In addition, Mei and Jonathan give an update on the progress of their translation of this book into English.    

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In this episode, Jonathan talks to Yefim about his approach to the treatment of chronic pain. The discussion covers the point-pressing technique and channel palpation for diagnosis, including common points used to treat chronic pain. There is also a summary of a recent chronic low back pain case. 

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In this episode Jason Robertson and Jonathan Chang discuss Dr. Wang's first published article on what eventually became Applied Channel Theory. This article was recently translated with commentary by Jonathan an re-published in The Lantern (https://www.thelantern.com.au/)

The discussion re-visits core concepts at the heart of Dr. Wang's clinical approach and how that approach is being used in our clinics today.  

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In this episode, Nyssa and Jonathan discuss Dr. Wang Ju-yi's clinical application and location of LR-5 （蠡沟), and how its location shifted over the years. Discussion of this point also expands to briefly describe Dr. Wang's location of the foot jue yin liver channel.  

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In this episode Jason and Nyssa build upon recent discussions of Taiyin and Jueyin physiology by exploring clinical presentations of qi stagnation/constraint/鬱 yù.  When we first begin to study East Asian medicine, we often fall into the trap of considering all qi stasis patterns to involve the liver.  This discussion uses clinical insight to compare and contrast Jueyin and  Taiyin qi constraint and some point pairs used to address this common presentation in the modern clinic.  

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In this episode, Jason and Jonathan discuss the relationship of the liver and pericardium in Jueyin using insomnia as an example.   Within each of the six channels, the particular relationship of the organs is unique.  When confronted with theoretical complexity, it is often most helpful to begin with a case study to bring things back to reality. 

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In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the point pair combination LU-5 + SP-9. Yefim recalls his initial obsession with this point combo, and how his understanding of it evolved over the years. The functions of this point pair on regulating tai yin physiology are introduced. In addition, it is compared to another common point pair -- the four gates. 

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In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss the back shu points.  Dr. Wang had a unique location for these important points which is discussed in detail.  In addition, Jon and Jason discuss how to palpate these points for diagnostic clues and how each of them use them in their daily clinical work. Cases are discussed and strategies for correlating distal channel palpation with palpation on the back are outlined. 

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In this episode Jason Robertson has a follow-up discussion with Yefim Gamgoneishvili  about the concept of the five minds and how they might relate to the seven emotions. The discussion takes ideas outlined in an earlier episode and further explores strategies for approaching psycho-emotional patterns ( 證 zhèng).  Using this lens, careful differentiation of more commonplace signs and symptoms can provide clues to effective treatment strategies for these sometimes thorny complaints. 

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In this episode Nyssa and Jonathan reminicse about Dr. Wang, especially his love for swimming. They discuss the impact of Dr. Wang's approach to life on their clinical approach, from his curiousity to never being in a rush.  

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The opportunity to have apprenticed with Dr. Wang Ju Yi is an enormous privilege that comes with the responsibility to continue sharing his work on classical acupuncture. In part 2 of this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Nyssa Tang and Jonathan Chang chat about their experiences as apprentices and teachers of this work. The conversation touches on the challenge of designing mentorship programs that maintain the integrity of Dr. Wang’s work and help convey his clinical curiosity and passion for helping his patients. 

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In this episode, Yefim discusses with Jonathan the treatment of a patient suffering from chronic upper back pain. He describes in detail the palpatory findings both distally and locally, while also analysing the points selected for treatment. There is discussion on the selection of BL-43 (膏肓 gao huang), along with the other four "huang" points. 

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In this episode Nyssa Tang and Jason Robertson discuss a series of recent cases, how palpation and questioning shaped their diagnosis and insights gleaned from results.  In particular, the cases have revolved around the impact of modern life on Taiyin physiology.  Favorite point pairs are discussed and the mechanisms of their action are considered. 

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In this episode, Mei Li and Jonathan Chang discuss Dr. Wang's concept of channel confusion and exhaustion. Mei talks about her experiences treating American patients who have developed channel confusion from the use of antibiotics and steroid medications, including ways to rehabilitate the channels.  

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In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss the relationship of Yangsheng/ 養生 (Nourishing Life Practices) to the channel system.  An understanding of the physiological role of the channel system is fundamental to the flexible clinical application of Applied Channel Theory. What is sometimes overlooked however is how our conception of physiological process can be used to motivate patients to make lifestyle changes.  By exploring how the effects of lifestyle choices can be palpated and perceived by our patients, a powerful clinical tool comes to life.