The synergistic effects of pair points are the basis of acupuncture treatment formula and point selections. It is the acupuncture physician's ultimate goal to find an optimal set of points to treat disorders effectively. Therefore. The guideline has always been to select the fewest possible points to generate the maximum impact. There are some tried and true formulas that are used often clinically. As Prof. Lti jingshan summarized. Shuigou / Renzhong (DU26) and Fengfu (DU16) are paired to awaken the brain and open orifices ; Hegu ( LI4 ) and Quchi (LI11 ) are often combined to reduce fever and release the exterior. Hegu (LI4) and Guangming ( GB37 ) together clear heat and brighten eyes. Hegu (LI4) and Zusanli ( ST36 ) combined lead to the ascendance of clear and descending of the turbid. Hegu ( LI4 ) and Taichong ( LV3 ) work in conjunction to extinguish wind and pacify liver.
Research has confirmed such synergistic relationships exist in pair points. Zhang li found that applying electric needling on Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan ( PC6 ) can shorten the recovery period of digestive organs after an abdomen operation. Luo haiou found that Zhongwan ( RN12 ) and Weishu (BL21) point work synergistically in effectively treating stomach ulcers. Wang guangyi found electric needling of Quchi (Llll) and Fenglong (ST40) provides better results in lowering blood pressure than using either point independently. In addition, not all pair points have the same synergistic effects. Zha wei found that Zusanli (ST36) paired with Mingmen ( DU4 ) has more antioxidation effects than Zusanli (ST36) paired with Dazhui (DU14).
In addition to the observation of the synergic effects of pair points, scholars have done extensive research on the mechanism of pair points. Using the fluorescent double-labeling technique Tong chenguang was able demonstrate that a special connection/pathway exists between Xiaochangshu ( BL27 ) and Guanyuan (RN4). This provides a scientific explanation of the clinically proven back-shu and front-mu points combination using the morphological approach. Also from a neuro-anatomy perspective, Lin qinwu was able demonstrate the connection between Neiguan (PC6) and Gongsun (SP4) through neurons in the medial and lateral parts of the spinal cord. He concluded that the solitary nucleus and tract is closely connected to these two points and their regulatory effects on internal organs, esp. stomach. This supports clinical findings that using Neiguan (PC6) and Gongsun (SP4) together strengthens their effects in the treatment of digestive disorders.