Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory artwork

Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory

67 episodes - English - Latest episode: 21 days ago - ★★★★★ - 22 ratings

Applied Channel Theory (經絡醫學 jīng luò yī xué) is an approach to acupuncture rooted in the dual research threads of classical texts and modern clinical application. Developed by Dr. Wang Ju–yi over 50 years in Beijing clinics, hospitals and research institutes, it involves the rigorous combination of theory and diagnostic technique. In addition to channel examination, Applied Channel Theory is a comprehensive system that includes channel theory, methods of channel diagnosis, the nature of acupuncture points, and various treatment methods. Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory is a series of discussions on Dr. Wang Ju-yi's medical system hosted by his official apprentices -- Yefim Gamgoneishvili, Jason Robertson, Nyssa Tang, Mei Li and Jonathan Chang. Conversations will cover a wide range of topics related to Applied Channel Theory, from clinical cases, to methods channel examination and deeper discussions on channel theory. This group is intended for licensed TCM practitioners and students at accredited TCM institutes. This podcast is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical care. Treatments described herein are not intended for self-medication or treatment by those who lack training in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, its hosts and guests are not responsible for any injury or damage that may result from the improper application of information from the podcast. www.channelpalpation.org

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Episodes

Episode 51: Treatment of Acute Knee Pain

April 06, 2024 16:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MB

In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the treatment of acute knee pain.  Yefim shares his general approach to the treatment of this type of disorder, from treatment methods to diagnosis with the use of channel palpation. 

Episode 50: A Case of Mysterious Belching

February 28, 2024 14:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MB

In this episode Jonathan shares a surprising belching case where channel palpation changed the course of his diagnosis and understanding of the patient’s physiology. He and Nyssa also discuss how Dr. Wang differentiated burps, the P6/SP4 point combination and its many uses. 

Episode 49: Palpation and Wen Jing Tang

February 02, 2024 03:00 - 30 minutes - 20.7 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss a case which shines a light on the interesting role channel palpation might play in Chinese herbal medicine.  What seemed like a fairly straightforward gynecological case using Wen Jing Tang (温经汤) offered potential insight into the Yang Ming system.  One of Dr. Wang's hopes was to integrate channel palpation more methodically into Chinese herbal medical diagnosis and strategy. To that end, Dr. Wang used herbal formulas in some of hi...

Episode 48: Qi in the Channels

November 16, 2023 17:00 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MB

In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson have a dialogue on the concept of qi in the channels.  Conclusions are difficult but the idea that there is a physiological process (or connectivity/通/tōng) taking place within the anatomical spaces of the acupuncture channels was a foundational concept for Dr. Wang Juyi.  Questions such as "how might think about the effects of acupuncture needles on the local anatomy" and "what kind of concepts did Dr. Wang use to explain qi in the channels...

Episode 47: The Importance of Patterns- A Case of Labor Induction

October 03, 2023 01:00 - 26 minutes - 18.3 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang describes to Jason Robertson interesting cases from his recent teaching in Spain, Poland and Canada.  In the process, a discussion arises regarding the importance of focusing on a 'chief complaint' or 'primary symptom' (主症 zhǔ zhèng) in order to construct a 'symptom-pattern-structure' (證候結構 zhèng hòu jié gòu).  For much more on diagnostic strategy, please see/download Jason and Jonathan's article from The Lantern - Home | The Lantern

Episode 46: A Discussion of the Yin Qiao Vessel

August 01, 2023 15:00 - 31 minutes - 21.4 MB

In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the extraordinary vessels, with a focus on Dr. Wang’s understanding of the Yin Qiao. Clinical application of KI-6 to regulate this vessel is also described. 

Episode 45: Recent Gynecological Cases and the Power of Acupuncture

June 28, 2023 15:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

In this episode Jonathan and Nyssa share some recent gynecology cases from their clinics using only acupuncture and moxibustion, and discuss the importance of nutrition in building healthy blood.  They also discuss how Dr. Wang respected and uplifted acupuncture as a powerful medicine that deserved the status of herbs in the clinic.   Hope you enjoy the conversation!

Episode 44: Palpation at the TCM Kongress Rothenburg

June 06, 2023 15:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MB

In this episode Jonathan and Jason discuss the fascinating synergy of the annual TCM Kongress held in Rothenburg Germany.  This event was the last place Dr. Wang taught internationally in 2014 and one he enjoyed immensely.  This year, Jason participated in a roundtable discussion and demonstration of palpation in East Asian medicine. In addition, he discussed the anatomy and physiology of the Jueyin system as described in classical texts with Italian sinologist Giulia Boschi.  For more infor...

Episode 43: A Doctor's Experiences at a TCM Hospital

May 05, 2023 05:00 - 28 minutes - 19.3 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang talks to Dr. Meng Xiaonan about his experiences becoming a doctor at a TCM hospital in Beijing. Later in the episode, Dr. Meng answers some listeners' questions about the treatment of post-stroke patients. 

Episode 42: Remembering Dr. Wang Ju-Yi on the Tomb Sweeping Day

April 04, 2023 11:00 - 34 minutes - 23.8 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson remember Dr. Wang on the annual holiday known as "Tomb Sweeping Day"  (清明節- Qing Ming Jie).  In the spirit of remembrance, Jon and Jason reflect on one of Dr. Wang's favorite quotes from the Neijing.  Ling Shu chapter one describes the very nature of  "channels/points [which are] where spirit qi moves, exits and enters [and are] not [the same as] skin, flesh, tendons and bones" (所言節者,神氣之所遊行出入也,非皮肉筋骨也).

Episode 41: Tonifying with Acupuncture

March 18, 2023 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

In this episode, Yefim Gamgoneishvili and Jason Robertson discuss the much-debated question regarding 'tonification/補 bǔ' in acupuncture. Specifically, the question often arises regarding whether or not we can actually tonify using acupuncture (or moxa) or whether 'true' deficiency requires herbal medicine or dietary supplementation.  In this episode, Yefim also discusses how a practitioner might assess whether a given point is in a state of 'excess' (實 shí) or 'deficiency' (虚 xū).

Episode 40: Jue Yin/Shao Yang Eye Twitch Case

February 24, 2023 16:00 - 35 minutes - 24.1 MB

In this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Jonathan Chang and Nyssa Tang chat about an eye twitching case that illustrates an aspect of the yin-yang relationship between the Jue Yin and Shao Yang.  The conversation also meanders into some observations about channel pathophysiology post-Covid and Dr. Wang Ju-Yi’s needling technique at DU14.  Hope you enjoy the conversation!

Episode 39: Treatment Strategies for Common Post-Covid Symptoms

February 01, 2023 15:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

In this episode, Jonathan talks with Dr. Rodrigo Aranda about his experiences treating post-Covid patients in Chile. Four common categories of patients that are typically seen are discussed (chronic fatigue, IBS, peripheral neuropathy and cough), including the  common point combinations used. 

Episode 38: Strategies for Combining Source (原/yuan) and Sea (合/he) Points

December 04, 2022 07:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson describe a common point pairing strategy used by Dr. Wang.  Namely, what might be done when a presenting pattern fails to fit perfectly into categories of 'excess' or 'deficiency'.  In these situations, more of a 'regulating' treatment is called for where the channels and organs are cleared without depleting. This discussion provides a broad overview of how these patterns might look in each of the six channels.  In addition, some guidelines...

Episode 38: Strategies for Combining Source (原/yuan) and Sea (合/he) Points

December 04, 2022 07:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson describe a common point pairing strategy used by Dr. Wang.  Namely, what might be done when a presenting pattern fails to fit perfectly into categories of 'excess' or 'deficiency'.  In these situations, more of a 'regulating' treatment is called for where the channels and organs are cleared without depleting. This discussion provides a broad overview of how these patterns might look in each of the six channels.  In addition, some guidelines...

Episode 37: Venting the Shao Yang

October 24, 2022 15:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MB

One of Dr. Wang’s most useful analogies for describing the physiology of the channels is the classic bamboo steamer that is a common sight at dumpling and bao shops in China. It’s a useful image for understanding how the channels support and influence each other to maintain a healthy internal environment.  In this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Jonathan and Nyssa share two cases where the lid of the steamer is opened to vent the Shao Yang. 

Episode 37: Venting the Shao Yang

October 24, 2022 15:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MB

One of Dr. Wang’s most useful analogies for describing the physiology of the channels is the classic bamboo steamer that is a common sight at dumpling and bao shops in China. It’s a useful image for understanding how the channels support and influence each other to maintain a healthy internal environment.  In this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Jonathan and Nyssa share two cases where the lid of the steamer is opened to vent the Shao Yang. 

Episode 36: Treating the Middle Burner

September 05, 2022 17:00 - 34 minutes - 23.7 MB

In Lingshu Chapter 18, the Neijing describes each of the three 'burners' (焦 jiao) in the trunk of the body as having what Dr. Wang described as 'environments'.  In that text, the middle burner is described as a 'pickling pot' (漚 ou). In this discussion, Jonathan and Jason discuss a variety of common patterns and physiological concepts related to this central area of post-natal qi creation.  Cases are described, questions are posed and, as usual, there is more to explore in the clinic!  

Episode 35: Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

July 20, 2022 06:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MB

In this episode, Jonathan talks to Dr. Meng Xiao Nan from the Huguosi TCM Hospital about his use of Applied Channel Theory in the treatment of post-stroke patients. Music by The Strayun.  If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit:  thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

Episode 34: Answering Listeners’ Questions

June 30, 2022 11:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MB

In this episode, Mei and Jonathan answer some listeners’ questions. A few topics are covered, such as Dr. Wang Ju-yi’s approach to tonifying and draining points, point selection and changes observed to the channels over the course of treatments.  Music by The Strayun.  If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit:  thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

Episode 33: Revisiting Old Friends -- Chat about Points (PC-6, LR-5 and more)

June 01, 2022 12:00 - 32 minutes - 22.1 MB

Dr. Wang Ju-Yi always reminded his students to see acupuncture points like friends. It takes time to learn their character and personality, tendencies in activity, needle sensation, and how each point should feel when palpating for their location. In this latest episode, Jonathan and Nyssa chat about some point friends  they have re-visited recently in their clinics, like PC-6 and LR-5, and, how channel palpation helps to re-evaluate their functions.  Music by The Strayun -- Clancy of the O...

Episode 32: An Unusual Case of Shoulder Pain in the Shaoyin Channel Sinews

May 13, 2022 10:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss an unusual recent case.  Some have noted that post-Covid patterns may involve the Shaoyin channel. When this pattern emerges, it often includes more familiar symptoms of insomnia, heart palpitations and some kinds of tinnitus. In this case, the primary complaint was a deep pain in the left shoulder joint.      Music by The Strayun. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit:  thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/cl...

Episode 31: Remembering Dr. Wang on the Tomb Sweeping Day

April 05, 2022 08:00 - 16 minutes - 11.2 MB

April 5th, 2022 was the Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节).  Jonathan shares some thoughts and memories of Professor Wang Ju-yi, who passed away in August 2017. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit:  thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow 

Episode 30: Treating Channel Sinews with the Tai Yang and Jue Yin

April 03, 2022 01:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB

In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan talk about the difference between treating channel sinew disorders with the Tai Yang and Jue Yin. Different strategies and point combos are discussed, illustrated with a  couple recent clinical cases.   We would also like to thank Tom Dole and his band The Strayun for letting us use their song Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit:  thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

Episode 29: LU-5 + KI-7 and Defensive Qi

February 23, 2022 23:00 - 36 minutes - 24.8 MB

In this episode Jonathan Chang begins by asking Jason Robertson about an article he wrote for the Journal of Chinese Medicine (https://www.channelpalpation.org/s/Point-Pair-Synergy-and-Defensive-Qi.pdf). In the course of discussing the article, Jon and Jason reflect upon  just a few of the concepts surrounding clinical application of defensive qi (衛氣 wèi qì) theory in East Asian medicine.  While avoiding  assigning  one-to-one equivalency of  'defensive qi' to the  'immune system', cases ar...

Episode 29: LU-5 + KI-7 and Defensive Qi

February 23, 2022 23:00 - 36 minutes - 24.8 MB

In this episode Jonathan Chang begins by asking Jason Robertson about an article he wrote for the Journal of Chinese Medicine (https://www.channelpalpation.org/s/Point-Pair-Synergy-and-Defensive-Qi.pdf). In the course of discussing the article, Jon and Jason reflect upon  just a few of the concepts surrounding clinical application of defensive qi (衛氣 wèi qì) theory in East Asian medicine.  While avoiding  assigning  one-to-one equivalency of  'defensive qi' to the  'immune system', cases ar...

Episode 28: Case Studies and Points Related to the Extraordinary Vessels

January 22, 2022 16:00 - 37 minutes - 25.8 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss two unusual cases- one from Dr. Wang’s clinic and another from Jonathan’s clinic in Beijing.  An analysis of these cases leads to a review of extraordinary vessel theory, modified point locations and some insights into the types of situations where extraordinary vessel theory can help unwind a difficult case.

Episode 27: Lung Channel and the Fall

November 13, 2021 05:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

Does this fall season have you re-assessing and returning to your routines and rhythms? In this episode, Jon and Nyssa talk about the seasonal affect on our Lung Tai Yin systems and things that we can do to support our bodies and minds. 

Episode 27: Lung Channel and the Fall

November 13, 2021 05:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

Does this fall season have you re-assessing and returning to your routines and rhythms? In this episode, Jon and Nyssa talk about the seasonal affect on our Lung Tai Yin systems and things that we can do to support our bodies and minds. 

Episode 26: Wang Ju-Yi's Case Study Book

October 30, 2021 04:00 - 26 minutes - 18.5 MB

In this episode, Mei and Jonathan discuss Dr. Wang's case study book 《王居易针灸医案讲习录》。They discuss their inspiration for working on this project with Dr. Wang, including talking about some of the clinical cases that initiated the writing of this book. In addition, Mei and Jonathan give an update on the progress of their translation of this book into English.    

Episode 26: Wang Ju-Yi's Case Study Book

October 30, 2021 04:00 - 26 minutes - 18.5 MB

In this episode, Mei and Jonathan discuss Dr. Wang's case study book 《王居易针灸医案讲习录》。They discuss their inspiration for working on this project with Dr. Wang, including talking about some of the clinical cases that initiated the writing of this book. In addition, Mei and Jonathan give an update on the progress of their translation of this book into English.    

Episode 25: Treatment of Chronic Pain

October 01, 2021 14:00 - 30 minutes - 20.8 MB

In this episode, Jonathan talks to Yefim about his approach to the treatment of chronic pain. The discussion covers the point-pressing technique and channel palpation for diagnosis, including common points used to treat chronic pain. There is also a summary of a recent chronic low back pain case. 

Episode 25: Treatment of Chronic Pain

October 01, 2021 14:00 - 30 minutes - 20.8 MB

In this episode, Jonathan talks to Yefim about his approach to the treatment of chronic pain. The discussion covers the point-pressing technique and channel palpation for diagnosis, including common points used to treat chronic pain. There is also a summary of a recent chronic low back pain case. 

Episode 24: Republished- A Discussion of Dr. Wang's Recently Translated Early Work

July 15, 2021 19:00 - 34 minutes - 23.5 MB

In this episode Jason Robertson and Jonathan Chang discuss Dr. Wang's first published article on what eventually became Applied Channel Theory. This article was recently translated with commentary by Jonathan an re-published in The Lantern (https://www.thelantern.com.au/) The discussion re-visits core concepts at the heart of Dr. Wang's clinical approach and how that approach is being used in our clinics today.  

Episode 23: LR-5

June 09, 2021 04:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MB

In this episode, Nyssa and Jonathan discuss Dr. Wang Ju-yi's clinical application and location of LR-5 (蠡沟), and how its location shifted over the years. Discussion of this point also expands to briefly describe Dr. Wang's location of the foot jue yin liver channel.  

Episode 23: LR-5

June 09, 2021 04:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MB

In this episode, Nyssa and Jonathan discuss Dr. Wang Ju-yi's clinical application and location of LR-5 (蠡沟), and how its location shifted over the years. Discussion of this point also expands to briefly describe Dr. Wang's location of the foot jue yin liver channel.  

Episode 22- Taiyin and Jueyin Qi Stagnation/鬱 yù

May 26, 2021 05:00 - 27 minutes - 18.8 MB

In this episode Jason and Nyssa build upon recent discussions of Taiyin and Jueyin physiology by exploring clinical presentations of qi stagnation/constraint/鬱 yù.  When we first begin to study East Asian medicine, we often fall into the trap of considering all qi stasis patterns to involve the liver.  This discussion uses clinical insight to compare and contrast Jueyin and  Taiyin qi constraint and some point pairs used to address this common presentation in the modern clinic.  

Episode 21: Insomnia and Jueyin

May 12, 2021 05:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MB

In this episode, Jason and Jonathan discuss the relationship of the liver and pericardium in Jueyin using insomnia as an example.   Within each of the six channels, the particular relationship of the organs is unique.  When confronted with theoretical complexity, it is often most helpful to begin with a case study to bring things back to reality. 

Episode 20: Dr. LU-5 SP-9

April 28, 2021 16:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MB

In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the point pair combination LU-5 + SP-9. Yefim recalls his initial obsession with this point combo, and how his understanding of it evolved over the years. The functions of this point pair on regulating tai yin physiology are introduced. In addition, it is compared to another common point pair -- the four gates. 

Episode 19: Palpation and Treatment of Back Shu Points

April 09, 2021 23:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MB

In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss the back shu points.  Dr. Wang had a unique location for these important points which is discussed in detail.  In addition, Jon and Jason discuss how to palpate these points for diagnostic clues and how each of them use them in their daily clinical work. Cases are discussed and strategies for correlating distal channel palpation with palpation on the back are outlined. 

Episode 19: Palpation and Treatment of Back Shu Points

April 09, 2021 23:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MB

In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss the back shu points.  Dr. Wang had a unique location for these important points which is discussed in detail.  In addition, Jon and Jason discuss how to palpate these points for diagnostic clues and how each of them use them in their daily clinical work. Cases are discussed and strategies for correlating distal channel palpation with palpation on the back are outlined. 

Episode 18: Five Minds Part Two

March 24, 2021 03:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

In this episode Jason Robertson has a follow-up discussion with Yefim Gamgoneishvili  about the concept of the five minds and how they might relate to the seven emotions. The discussion takes ideas outlined in an earlier episode and further explores strategies for approaching psycho-emotional patterns ( 證 zhèng).  Using this lens, careful differentiation of more commonplace signs and symptoms can provide clues to effective treatment strategies for these sometimes thorny complaints. 

Episode 17: Swimming with Dr. Wang

March 10, 2021 04:00 - 28 minutes - 19.6 MB

In this episode Nyssa and Jonathan reminicse about Dr. Wang, especially his love for swimming. They discuss the impact of Dr. Wang's approach to life on their clinical approach, from his curiousity to never being in a rush.  

Episode 16: Discussion of a Chronic Upper Back Pain Case

February 24, 2021 05:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MB

In this episode, Yefim discusses with Jonathan the treatment of a patient suffering from chronic upper back pain. He describes in detail the palpatory findings both distally and locally, while also analysing the points selected for treatment. There is discussion on the selection of BL-43 (膏肓 gao huang), along with the other four "huang" points. 

Episode 16: Discussion of a Chronic Upper Back Pain Case

February 24, 2021 05:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MB

In this episode, Yefim discusses with Jonathan the treatment of a patient suffering from chronic upper back pain. He describes in detail the palpatory findings both distally and locally, while also analysing the points selected for treatment. There is discussion on the selection of BL-43 (膏肓 gao huang), along with the other four "huang" points. 

Episode 15: Recent Case Studies and Insights into Taiyin Physiology

February 10, 2021 05:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

In this episode Nyssa Tang and Jason Robertson discuss a series of recent cases, how palpation and questioning shaped their diagnosis and insights gleaned from results.  In particular, the cases have revolved around the impact of modern life on Taiyin physiology.  Favorite point pairs are discussed and the mechanisms of their action are considered. 

Episode 14: Channel Confusion and Exhaustion

January 27, 2021 05:00 - 25 minutes - 17.8 MB

In this episode, Mei Li and Jonathan Chang discuss Dr. Wang's concept of channel confusion and exhaustion. Mei talks about her experiences treating American patients who have developed channel confusion from the use of antibiotics and steroid medications, including ways to rehabilitate the channels.  

Episode 13: Yangsheng and the Channels

January 12, 2021 22:00 - 39 minutes - 27.1 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss the relationship of Yangsheng/ 養生 (Nourishing Life Practices) to the channel system.  An understanding of the physiological role of the channel system is fundamental to the flexible clinical application of Applied Channel Theory. What is sometimes overlooked however is how our conception of physiological process can be used to motivate patients to make lifestyle changes.  By exploring how the effects of lifestyle choices can be palp...

Episode 12- Integrating Applied Channel Theory With Other Currents of Acupuncture

January 02, 2021 17:00 - 32 minutes - 22.3 MB

In this episode Jason Robertson joins Nyssa Tang for a discussion of how an initial exposure to Dr. Wang Juyi began a process which slowly changed an understanding of the practice of acupuncture.  Applied Channel Theory is an approach to East Asian Medicine which can be readily integrated with other approaches to practice.  The key is to develop strategies for using six channel theory and palpation in diagnosis to compare and contrast other currents of thinking. Nyssa and Jason begin by disc...

Episode 12: Integrating Applied Channel Theory With Other Currents of Acupuncture

January 02, 2021 17:00 - 32 minutes - 22.3 MB

In this episode Jason Robertson joins Nyssa Tang for a discussion of how an initial exposure to Dr. Wang Juyi began a process which slowly changed an understanding of the practice of acupuncture.  Applied Channel Theory is an approach to East Asian Medicine which can be readily integrated with other approaches to practice.  The key is to develop strategies for using six channel theory and palpation in diagnosis to compare and contrast other currents of thinking. Nyssa and Jason begin by disc...