What is the meridian system in traditional Chinese medicine?

Overview

According to traditional Chinese medicine, the meridian system is the
energy system of the body and is essential for maintaining good health and
harmony. Each of the twelve main meridians, or pathways, relates to a yin, or
solid organ (heart, lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, pericardium), or to a yang, or
hollow organ (small intestine, large intestine, gallbladder, stomach, urinary
bladder, triple heater). Meridian pathways transport vital energy
(qi) throughout the body. These high-energy areas act as
guides in pressure-point therapies such as acupuncture
to help diagnose and treat illnesses.

Mechanism of Action

Meridians are said to distribute vital life energy and to unify, link, and regulate all areas and activities of the body. Each meridian is associated with a unique set of disease symptoms. Pain occurs when the flow of energy along the meridian pathway is disrupted. Energy access points, known as acupoints or acupuncture points, are functional sites located on the surface of the skin along the meridian pathways. Stimulation at the appropriate site helps to restore the flow of energy, eliminate blockages, and promote healing at the affected area.

Uses and Applications

Meridians are used in many forms of pressure-point therapies to help heal,
maintain harmony, and prevent imbalances. Meridians are most often used in
acupuncture, acupressure, and massage techniques.

Scientific Evidence

Although the use of meridians in ancient Chinese healing has existed for centuries, the concept remains controversial. The scientific basis for meridians is unknown. Most evidence supporting meridians is anecdotal because of a lack of scientific validation by Western standards. Regardless, energy-based techniques have gained widespread interest and acceptance.

Researchers have been unable to find an anatomical structure corresponding to the meridian. Some studies have linked meridians to neurovascular bundles, trigger points, and connective tissue spaces. Other studies suggest that meridians run along a fluid pathway and are associated with areas of lower electrical resistance and greater conductivity on the body. Results of these multiple studies were limited by inadequate research design, nonstandardized acupoint locations, small sample sizes, and a lack of rigorous statistical analysis. Although these studies provide possible insight into the meridian system, the results remain inconclusive.

Because of the elusive nature of meridians and acupoints, it is difficult to design an appropriate placebo control group and proper double-blind procedures. More rigorous research is needed to quantify the importance of the meridian healing network as a beneficial form of medical intervention.

Choosing a Practitioner

Persons interested in meridian-based therapies should choose a qualified, trained practitioner.

Bibliography

Filshie, Jacqueline, and Adrian White, eds. Medical Acupuncture: A Western Scientific Approach. New York: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier, 2006.

Freeman, Lyn. Mosby’s Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Research-Based Approach. 3d ed. St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby/Elsevier, 2009.

Kohn, Livia. Health and Long Life: The Chinese Way. Cambridge, Mass.: Three Pines Press, 2005.

Koopsen, Cyndie, and Caroline Young. Integrative Health: A Holistic Approach for Health Professionals. Sudbury, Mass.: Jones and Bartlett, 2009.