What makes Japanese acupuncture different to other acupuncture styles?
Japanese acupuncture needles are super-fine and are only inserted very shallowly in the skin. In some styles, such as Toyohari (see below), very fine silver needles are just touched to the skin and not inserted at all. Thus, treatment is very comfortable for both adults and children who might feel anxious about acupuncture.
A hands-on approach to diagnosis involves gentle abdominal and channel palpation, along with examination of the pulse. Positive changes can be felt through these feedback mechanisms and improvement to symptoms experienced during the treatment.
Japanese acupuncture always addresses the root imbalance that is seen as the cause of the presenting condition. A number of systems are used, that allows for a diverse range of approaches tailored to the needs of each individual patient.
To effectively target symptoms through branch treatment, an extensive repertoire of treatment strategies includes moxa techniques, cupping, tuina massage, auricular acupuncture, structural adjustment and channel stretching exercises.
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Toyohari Meridian therapy
Toyohari is a form of meridian therapy that was developed by a group of blind practitioners in Japan. It is one of the leading associations of Meridian Therapy in Japan.
It involves a unique style of needling using very fine silver needles and non-insertive needle techniques that influence the flow of the qi in the meridian system.
Meridian therapy (also known as ‘keiraku chiryo’ in Japanese) was developed in Japan in the 1930s as a movement to preserve traditional principles within the acupuncture profession.
Meridian therapy is based on the classical texts of Chinese medicine dating back 2500 years, with its emphasis on the meridian system that connects not only the musculoskeletal structure but also the internal organs.
The theory of the five elements and phases explains the dynamic inter-relationship of the meridians and their associated internal organs and aims to improve the circulation of qi (vital energy) to bring the body back into balance, on both a physical and mental/emotional level.
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Neo Classical Acupuncture
NCA is a unique style of acupuncture that uses gentle palpation(careful touch) to find where the body’s energy is blocked.
Although NCA is not a style of Japanese acupuncture, it has many similarities in that the intervention is minimal and diagnosis involves palpation to the abdomen, to ascertain where the areas of tightness and discomfort are. This is then used as feedback to check that treatment is effective, by ensuring that the tight tender areas release – mostly instantaneously.
We look for the root cause (what’s really driving the problem)
We treat the elements, branches or other energetic entities where symptoms are showing up in the body.
Often, we can address both at once — sometimes with just one needle.
The Six Elements
Instead of the traditional five elements, NCA works with six elements:
Wood • Fire • Earth • Metal • Water • Ether (Heaven)
Each element relates to a different part of the body’s energy system. When one element is out of balance, it can affect the whole system — even before symptoms start.
How We Find the Root Cause
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Listening to Your Body – I gently feel your abdomen, arms, and legs for areas of tension or tenderness.
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Identifying the Imbalance – These findings tell me which element and which “branches” of your energy network are affected.
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Choosing the Right Point – Using a special set of acupuncture points, I can open the blocked pathway.
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Checking the Change – After needling, I re-check the same areas to confirm the blockage has cleared. If needed, I may use a non-retention “sweeper” needle at the end of your session to help settle and balance your energy.
What You Might Notice
Because NCA treats the whole system, changes can happen quickly:
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Pain may reduce or vanish
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Muscles soften and tension eases
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Movement feels freer
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Energy feels more balanced
Why This Approach Works So Well
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We go to the source – treating the real cause, not just the symptom.
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We check results in real time – so you know it’s working before you leave.
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We use fewer needles – often only one.
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We treat the whole system – so you get both short-term relief and long-term improvement.
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Manaka Style Acupuncture
Dr Manaka’s comprehensive and structured approach applies fundamental principles of yin and yang to the treatment process. It is a four-step protocol which treats both the root (underlying imbalance) and branch (presenting conditions/symptoms).
Using this approach, tension in the abdomen & back are released, enabling the body to return to a more harmonious state of balance and wellbeing. This dynamic approach, with its many feedback systems, means that both the practitioner and the person receiving treatment, can experience immediate changes.
A new clinical guide book on Manaka’s system of acupuncture – which I am one of the author’s, will be published in the next few months.
Research
You can get more information on current scientific research into the effectiveness of acupuncture by visiting the following sites:
British Acupuncture Council
Journal of Chinese Medicine
Evidence Based Acupuncture
