Acupoints are the spots where qi and blood from the viscera and meridians effuse and infuse in the body surface. The name of acupoints indicates that the basic characteristics, the spots where qi and blood from the viscera and meridians effuse and infuse; acupoints are usually located in the interstices in the thick muscles or between tendons and bones. The viscera, meridians and acupoints in the interior and exterior form an organic whole with close relation and harmonious unity.

The meridians are connected with the viscera in the interior and with the acupoints in the exterior. The acupoints are the spots where qi from the viscera and meridians “effuse and infuse” as well as “run out and in”. The viscera transform qi and blood, while the meridians and acupoints transport and infuse qi and blood. So the viscera form the base for the functional activities of the meridians and acupoints. Under pathological conditions, disorders of the viscera can be reflected on certain acupoints through the meridians. Stimulation of" the acupoints with abnormal manifestations or related acupoints may regulate the functional activities of the corresponding viscera.