"押手"在针灸临床实践中的理论探微OA

The"pressing hand"is traditionally defined as the hand that assists in needle insertion.However,in clinical practice,physicians often equate it solely with the left hand(the non-needle-holding hand),neglecting its functions throughout the entire diagnostic and therapeutic process,thus limiting its auxiliary role.To reinterpret the true nature of the"pressing hand",this paper based on the definition of its functions of"holding and governing"from the Lingshu·Jiuzhen Shieryuan(《灵枢·九针十二原》)"Left hand holds and governs",combined with literature review,clinical practice,and the experience of mentors,identifies that the pressing hand performs the following actions:acquiring information and assisting diagnosis in the diagnostic phase;locating acupoints,sensing deficiency or excess,gathering the nutrient and dispersing the defensive,relieving pain and calming the spirit before needling;assisting insertion,calming the soul and treating the spirit,sensing arrival of Qi(气),and assisting Qi movement during needling;and participating in tonification or draining and managing adverse reactions after needling.All these actions align with the functional definition of the"pressing hand"as"left hand holds and governs".It is observed that both hands during diagnosis,the left hand before and after needling,and specific operations of the right hand(needle-holding hand)during needling all perform the function of the"pressing hand".This indicates that equating the"pressing hand"merely with the left hand fails to encompass its functional definition.Therefore,one must break free from this entrenched concept and define the"pressing hand"based on the function performed by the performing hand to fully utilize its role throughout the entire process.This paper aims to transcend traditional cognitive limitations by offering a new perspective:the"pressing hand"should not be defined merely as the left hand,but rather by the function it performs during the entire diagnostic and therapeutic process.In this way,the characteristics of the"pressing hand"and the"needling hand"being complementary,interdependent,and exhibiting mutual inclusivity align with the theoretical framework of Yin-Yang(阴 阳)in traditional Chinese medicine,emphasizing a holistic concept and dynamic balance throughout the treatment process.This approach allows for a comprehensive realization of the"pressing hand's"role in holding,controlling,and governing the overall situation.