Lifting and thrusting

A method of needle manipulation whereby after insertion the needle is retracted (but not removed from the body) and then thrust back to the depth of the original insertion.

Method: Lift the needle a short distance relative to the depth of the flesh at the point; then thrust back to the original depth. Keep the direction of insertion constant to avoid local pain and residual discomfort after needling. Keep the distance covered by this motion at 0.3–0.5 cùn. Take care to avoid raising the needle too far and thus withdrawing the needle or thrusting it too deeply and going below the recommended needling depth. Use quick vigorous movements to drain, and gentle slow ones to supplement. According to one theory, a sharp thrust with a gentle lift supplements (as if pushing the qì in), whereas a sharp lift with a gentle thrust drains (as if pulling the qì out). A moderate lift and thrust produces even supplementation and drainage. See lifting and thrusting supplementation and drainage. Compare needle pounding.