Clinical Experience in Treating Neck, Shoulder, Waist and Leg Pain via the Combination of Linggu, Dabai, Zhengjin and Zhengzong Points: A Clinical Study on the Four-Point Core Combination Based on Tung's Extra Points Theory and Its Implications for the Opioid Abuse Crisis

Tingting Zhu; Chengbo Zhen

doi:10.62177/apjcmr.v2i3.1489

Authors

Tingting Zhu Summer Acupuncture
Chengbo Zhen Summer Acupuncture

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62177/apjcmr.v2i3.1489

Keywords:

Linggu Point (22.05), Dabai Point (22.04), Zhengjin Point (77.01), Zhengzong Point (77.02), Neck, Shoulder, Waist, and Leg Pain, Acupuncture Analgesia, Non-Pharmacological Therapy, Opioid Crisis

Abstract

Objective: To systematically summarize the clinical experience of combining four core points from Tung’s Extra Points—Linggu (22.05), Dabai (22.04), Zhengjin (77.01), and Zhengzong (77.02)—in treating neck, shoulder, waist, and leg pain, and to explore its theoretical foundation and core operational techniques. Methods: By reviewing recent clinical practices, we analyzed the dialectical reasoning and standardized manipulation protocols of this four-point combination for managing musculoskeletal pain. A representative case study was thoroughly examined, and the analgesic mechanisms were elucidated from the dual dimensions of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern medicine. Results: The synergistic application of these four points demonstrates distinct advantages, including a refined and minimalist point selection, strong needle sensation (deqi), rapid onset of relief, and a high safety profile. The overall effective rate exceeds 85%. Notably, its therapeutic efficacy on residual pain following lumbar spine surgery is exceptionally prominent, providing a reliable non-pharmacological analgesic protocol for patients who fear reoperation. Conclusion: Supported by theories such as Zangfu Bie-Tong (Extraordinary Organ Connections), holographic correspondence, Dao-Ma (coupling) needle technique, and Ju-Ci (contralateral) needle technique, this four-point combination treats both symptoms and root causes. It serves not only as a highly efficient non-opioid analgesic strategy but also as a crucial alternative therapy to address the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States, representing significant value for widespread clinical promotion.

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