Qi, Acupuncture, and the Fascia: A Reconsideration of the Fundamental Principles of Acupuncture

Abstract

Qi is a complex philosophical principle that may be applied to everything that exists. The qi principle, as has been commonly applied to acupuncture, is inconsistent with its application in other areas. This article considers the acupuncture concept of qi in light of recent research, particularly studies expanding the role of the fascia in human health. Qi is discussed in the context of philosophical, historical, and cross-cultural perspectives. The discussion includes the fascia acupuncture hypothesis, which suggests that fascial planes are the channels and the stimulation of the fascia results in activity of the tissue capable of affecting every aspect of physiology. Based on structural and functional parallels between the channel system and the fascia, such activity is hypothesized to be the qi of the channels, providing consistency to the application of the qi principle. Both acupuncture and "sham" acupuncture stimulate the fascia, perhaps contributing to the results of meta-analyses of clinical acupuncture research. Implications for future research and acupuncture education are discussed.