According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, our body consists of a giant web called the meridian system linking different parts together; its channels making up a comprehensive yet complex body map that supplies qi (vital energy) to every part of the body, assists the distribution of blood and body fluids, maintains the balance between yin and yang elements, and protects the body against disease. Along these channels, acupoints are the sites through which the qi of the organs and meridians is transported to the body surface. It is generally believed that diseases can be treated when the affected meridians or the affected organs are cleared. Acupuncturists work on these points to regulate corresponding organs or meridians so that the body can return to a state of balance and health.

The meridian system is made up by a series of channels, which are interconnected to form a stream of endless flow to facilitate the distributions of fundamental substances. In the system, the twelve regular meridians form the major framework structure; they branch out divergent channels to enter the chest, abdomen and head for connecting the internal organs; fifteen connecting collaterals to run along the limbs and on the trunk. There are also twelve small collaterals for controlling the muscles and tendons, and smaller collaterals disturbed on the skin surface, and the eight extra meridians to enhance the communications and functions within the system. They work closely with each other, with a dysfunction in one usually affecting another. In Chinese medicine, to be knowledgeable about the meridian system is as important as anatomy and physiology in Western medicine.

>Twelve regular meridians

>The eight extra meridians

>Collaterals of the meridian system