Auricular Acupuncture & Ear Therapy Flashcards

In the auricular somatotopic map, which anatomical structure of the ear corresponds to the spine?

Answer: Antihelix

The antihelix and its crura represent the spine, with the lower antihelix body corresponding to the lumbar region and upper crura to the lower limbs.

Active or reactive auricular acupuncture points are most reliably identified using which method?

Answer: Electrical probe detection or pressure sensitivity testing

Reactive auricular points exhibit decreased electrical resistance (increased conductivity) and heightened tenderness to probe pressure compared to surrounding tissue.

The auricular Heart point is located in which region?

Answer: Cavum conchae

The Heart point is located in the cavum conchae (lower concha), consistent with the thoracic organ representation in this region.

Which auricular point is located at the apex of the ear and is used for fever, allergy, and anti-inflammatory effects?

Answer: Helix apex (Ear Apex)

The Ear Apex (apex of the helix) is bled or needled for acute febrile conditions, allergic reactions, and to reduce inflammation.

The NADA auricular Lung point is particularly associated with treating addiction to which substance?

Answer: Tobacco

The Lung point in the NADA protocol has a special affinity for tobacco addiction and is associated with grief and respiratory function in TCM.

Semi-permanent auricular press needles or Vaccaria seeds are primarily used to:

Answer: Provide sustained point stimulation between office visits

Press needles and Vaccaria seeds taped over auricular points provide continuous low-level stimulation between clinic visits to extend treatment effects.

The Zero Point in auricular acupuncture is considered the homeostatic center and corresponds to which body region?

Answer: Diaphragm and solar plexus

The Zero Point corresponds to the diaphragm/solar plexus and is used to establish homeostasis and as a reference point for all other auricular measurements.