Chinese pulse diagnosis: for centuries, the Chinese have studied changes in the radial pulse (vessel diameter, vessel hardness, etc.) to assess the quality of circulation & the potential factors obstructing it

Chinese tongue diagnosis: additionally, the Chinese have studied changes in the tongue (color of tongue coating, tongue swelling, etc.) to assess imbalances in circulation & internal organ function

Key Points:

• Acupuncture needles are different from injection needles: acupuncture needles are generally thinner & smoother, whereas injection needles are thicker with a beveled tip

• Acupuncture needles usually cause little to no pain: stimulation of acupuncture points will often cause a dull, achy sensation, which will often fade during the treatment