Case report of tension pneumothorax related to acupuncture.

Although recent prospective studies came to the conclusion that the incidence of adverse events following acupuncture can be classified as minimal, many cases of acupuncture-related pneumothorax have been published over the years, among them some cases of tension pneumothorax. In this case, a slender woman received acupuncture from a fully trained medical acupuncturist including needling of the points LU1 in the subacromial region and BL13, which is a paravertebral point at the level of the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra. During the final treatment, she experienced difficulties in breathing and pain in the left chest.

Guidelines for case reports of adverse events related to acupuncture.

Numerous case reports of adverse events of acupuncture have been published, mostly in journals which are not related to acupuncture. The authors usually have no training in acupuncture. In principle, case reports on adverse events are of value as an aid for learning.

Anatomy for the acupuncturist--facts & fiction. 3: Upper & lower extremity.

Anatomy knowledge, and the skill to apply it, is arguably the most important facet of safe and competent acupuncture practice. The authors believe that an acupuncturist should always know where the tip of their needle lies with respect to the relevant anatomy so that vital structures can be avoided and so that the intended target for stimulation can be reached. This article describes the anatomy of the upper limb and shoulder girdle, and lower limb and pelvis, relevant to safe needling practice.

Anatomy for the acupuncturist--facts & fiction 2: The chest, abdomen, and back.

Anatomy knowledge, and the skill to apply it, is arguably the most important facet of safe and competent acupuncture practice. The authors believe that an acupuncturist should always know where the tip of their needle lies with respect to the relevant anatomy so that vital structures can be avoided and so that the intended target for stimulation can be reached. This article reviews clinically relevant anatomy for somatic needling of the chest and abdomen.