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Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory

Wang Ju-Yi's Applied Channel Theory Research Center

Applied Channel Theory (經絡醫學 jīng luò yī xué) is an approach to acupuncture rooted in the dual research threads of classical texts and modern clinical application. Developed by Dr. Wang Ju–yi over 50 years in Beijing clinics, hospitals and research institutes, it involves the rigorous combination of theory and diagnostic technique. In addition to channel examination, Applied Channel Theory is a comprehensive system that includes channel theory, methods of channel diagnosis, the nature of acupuncture points, and various treatment methods. Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory is a series of discussions on Dr. Wang Ju-yi's medical system hosted by his official apprentices -- Yefim Gamgoneishvili, Jason Robertson, Nyssa Tang, Mei Li and Jonathan Chang. Conversations will cover a wide range of topics related to Applied Channel Theory, from clinical cases, to methods channel examination and deeper discussions on channel theory. This group is intended for licensed TCM practitioners and students at accredited TCM institutes. This podcast is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical care. Treatments described herein are not intended for self-medication or treatment by those who lack training in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, its hosts and guests are not responsible for any injury or damage that may result from the improper application of information from the podcast. www.channelpalpation.org

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  • 20 episodes
  • every few months
  • Avg 35 min
  • English
  • July 15 · 36 min

    Episode 68: Modern Applications of Medical Ethics

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss three sources of medical ethics and reflect on how they can inform the modern clinic. Drawing first from a phrase attributed to the Tang dynasty physician Sun Simiao ( 孫思邈, 581-682 CE) then considering scrolls Dr. Wang had painted for his office walls and finally going back to concepts attributed to the mythical Warring States period physician Bian Que (扁鵲, 407-310 BC?), the conversation reveals that some clinical dilemmas are ageless. Who to treat, what attitude to have and where to draw the line with difficult patients are all concepts that have confronted physicians in every era. For those interested in the original Chinese phrases, see below: 孙思邈 - Sun Simiao (from 備急千金要方) 大醫精誠 王居易- Wang Juyi (a traditional quote he kept on his clinic wall) 天不言高而自尊, 地不言厚而自重。 扁鵲- Bian Que (from 史記·扁鵲倉公列傳) 1- 驕恣不論於理 2- 輕身重財 3- 衣食不能適 4- 陰陽并藏氣不定 5- 形羸不能服藥 6- 信巫不信醫 Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • May 19 · 42 min

    Episode 67: Integrating Tongue Diagnosis with Channel Examination

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jonathan and Yefim discuss the integration of tongue diagnosis with channel examination. What to do in cases when the presentation of the tongue doesn't match with the findings from channel examination and symptom pattern differentiation? Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • March 9 · 38 min

    Episode 66: Trusting the Objectivity of the Channels

    Send us Fan Mail Recently Jonathan Chang and Nyssa Tang had the opportunity to treat the same patient on opposite sides of the globe and in this episode, they discuss their findings for the first time and how they chose their point combinations. This case demonstrates that the objective information which can be palpated in our patients’ channel systems can lead us to clear diagnoses and treatments. Jon and Nyssa share their own experiences as apprentices learning to trust the process and how it shaped their understanding of channel physiology. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • January 17 · 36 min

    Episode 65: Reconciling Zang Fu Diagnosis with Applied Channel Theory

    Send us Fan Mail Acupuncturists first encountering Applied Channel Theory are sometimes confused about apparent differences between Dr. Wang's diagnostic approach and more common diagnostic models which focus on patterns arising from the Zang Fu (脏腑/yin-yang organs). In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss how a diagnostic model which places channels at the center can be reconciled with so-called "TCM" style. In fact, the discussion explores how a familiarity with Zang Fu diagnosis is indispensable. Building on the foundations of Zang Fu theory, a channel-based diagnostic process (including palpation) generates clinical flexibility. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Nov 12, 2025 · 25 min

    Episode 64: Thinking about Collaterals; PC-6 with SP-4 vs. LR-5

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode Jason Robertson attempts to get into Yefim Gamgoneisvili's head. In the practice of East Asian Medicine, fine differentiation of herb properties, channel function and point function can make the difference between a mediocre treatment and the best possible results. With almost 40 years of clinical experience, Yefim's choice of point pairs sometimes involves fairly fine differentiation in diagnosis and desired treatment effects. By comparing the effects of using PC-6 with LR-5 vs. SP-4, some interesting insights into the Jueyin, Taiyin and the extraordinary vessels come out. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Sep 28, 2025 · 35 min

    Episode 63: Two Cases of Irregular Menses

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode Jonathan and Nyssa talk about two recent gynaecological cases. The cases are different according to the general pathology, channel changes and points selected. At the same time, the evolution of the treatments is described in detail, as the points that are selected shift as the patient’s condition changes. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Jul 17, 2025 · 39 min

    Episode 62: Modern Research on the Nature of Channels -- Interview with Professor Zhang Wei-bo

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jonathan talks to Professor Zhang Wei-bo (张维波) about his research on the channels, which he calls the "Interstice-Interstitial Fluid" School of thought. His research has focused on the circulation of interstitial fluids within the channels, with recent research analyzing the unique content within these fluids and their relationship with the channel functions. Professor Zhang is a researcher and doctoral supervisor at the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences. His major is biomechanics, and his research focuses on the biophysical study of acupuncture and meridians. For more information on Professor Zhang's research: 1) Visit our website -- www.channelpalpation.org/publications-articles 2) Professor Zhang's WeChat Channel: 经络之声

  • Jun 20, 2025 · 43 min

    Episode 61: Lessons From Two Shao Yang Headaches

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson each discuss a recent case of temporal (Shaoyang) headache from their clinics. Despite the similar location of the headaches, channel selection varied as the underlying patterns were actually quite different. Palpation of distal channels and local areas on the head are discussed. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • May 7, 2025 · 42 min

    Episode 60: Reflections on Apprenticeship Part 2

    Send us Fan Mail The opportunity to have apprenticed with Dr. Wang Ju Yi is an enormous privilege that comes with the responsibility to continue sharing his work on classical acupuncture. In part 2 of this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Nyssa Tang and Jonathan Chang chat about their experiences as apprentices and teachers of this work. The conversation touches on the challenge of designing mentorship programs that maintain the integrity of Dr. Wang’s work and help convey his clinical curiosity and passion for helping his patients. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow Boat Song(《船歌》) -- Sung by Wayne Wu

  • May 6, 2025 · 34 min

    Episode 60: Reflections on Apprenticeship Part 1

    Send us Fan Mail The opportunity to have apprenticed with Dr. Wang Ju Yi is an enormous privilege that comes with the responsibility to continue sharing his work on classical acupuncture. In part 1 of this episode of Dialogues on Applied Channel Theory, Nyssa Tang chats with Jason Robertson and Yefim Gamgoneishvili about their experiences as apprentices and teachers of this work. The conversations touch on the challenge of mentoring their students and how to maintain the integrity of Dr. Wang’s work while conveying his clinical curiosity and passion for this medicine. Don’t miss Part 2 of this episode as the conversation continues with Jonathan Chang. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Mar 31, 2025 · 37 min

    Episode 59- Spleen 21 and the Great Collateral of the Spleen (脾大絡)

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode Jonathan Chang and Jason Robertson discuss the curious dilemma of SP-21 and its association with the 'great collateral of the spleen' (脾大絡 pí dà luò). Dr. Wang's thinking on this point and the concept of this oft-forgotten "extra collateral' is discussed and two cases that may offer some insights are discussed. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Jan 31, 2025 · 36 min

    Episode 58: Cases from Guatemala — Arthritis and Dizziness

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Yefim talks to Jonathan about his recent trip to rural Guatemala. He discusses two cases that he saw while there. The first patient had arthritis due to tai yang pathology, while the second patient suffered from dizziness that was treated with the four gates. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Dec 13, 2024 · 34 min

    Episode 57: Insights into the Early History of Acupuncture

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jonathan talks to Dr. Shelley Ochs about recent texts and artifacts excavated from the Han Dynasty tomb in Lao Guan Shan (老官山汉墓), Sichuan Province. She discusses how these findings are related to her PhD research on Bian Que, including his use of a channel based medicine. Later in the episode, Shelley also talks about a figurine with channel pathways discovered in the tombs which gives insights into the development of channels during that period of time. Excavated texts also point to the use of palpation in the discovery of the channels. Link to articles on the Lao Guan Shan research: https://brill.com/view/journals/asme/18/1-2/asme.18.issue-1-2.xml Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Nov 3, 2024 · 33 min

    Episode 56: Regulating the pivots

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jonathan Chang and Nyssa Tang discuss some recent Shao Yin/Shao Yang cases where the channel changes made them rethink the pathophysiology and location of the disease. They discuss their evolving understanding of the inter-related Qi dynamics in these two systems and how symptoms manifest when they are dysregulated. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Sep 17, 2024 · 31 min

    Episode 55: Treatment of Post-Stroke Shoulder and Hand Syndrome

    Send us Fan Mail Jonathan talks to Dr. Meng Xiao-nan from the Huguosi TCM Hospital about his recent clinical research on the treatment of post-stroke shoulder and hand syndrome. His research studied the use of Applied Channel Theory, such as channel palpation to achieve more precise diagnosis, while also applying Dr. Wang’s methods of acupuncture and different massage techniques for more effective results. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • #54
    Aug 7, 2024 · 32 min

    Episode 54- A Tale of Two Xi/郄

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode Nyssa Tang and Jason Robertson discuss two less-often remembered xi-cleft points. KI-8/交信 /jiāo xìn is the xi cleft of yin qiao vessel. KI-9 筑宾 /zhù bīn is the xi cleft of yin wei vessel. Dr. Wang's experience with these points is discussed as are clinical cases from Nyssa and Jason. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Jun 12, 2024 · 33 min

    Episode 53 Cardiology and Constraint in Rothenburg

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jason Robertson and Jonathan Chang discuss his recent trip to teach at the yearly international congress in Rothenburg Germany. Jason asks Jonathan about his presentations on cardiology and the concept of 'constraint' (鬱 yù). For those interested in diving deeper into Jonathan's presentation, see his article here Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • May 16, 2024 · 30 min

    Episode 52: The Importance of the Primary Symptom (主癥 zhǔ zhèng)

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Yefim Gamgoneishvili and Jason Robertson discuss the centrality of placing a 'primary symptom' (主 症 zhǔ zhèng) at the heart of the diagnostic process. Dr. Wang Juyi would often emphasize that the careful choice of a primary symptom was the crucial first step in the process of perceiving symptom-pattern-structure (症候结构 zhèng hòu jié gòu). While many students and practitioners learn this concept early in their training, we all can make the common clinical error of diffusing the effects of acupuncture by needling single points for single symptoms. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Apr 6, 2024 · 34 min

    Episode 51: Treatment of Acute Knee Pain

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Yefim and Jonathan discuss the treatment of acute knee pain. Yefim shares his general approach to the treatment of this type of disorder, from treatment methods to diagnosis with the use of channel palpation. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

  • Feb 28, 2024 · 30 min

    Episode 50: A Case of Mysterious Belching

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode Jonathan shares a surprising belching case where channel palpation changed the course of his diagnosis and understanding of the patient’s physiology. He and Nyssa also discuss how Dr. Wang differentiated burps, the P6/SP4 point combination and its many uses. Music by The Strayun: Clancy of the Overflow. If you're interested in listening to the entire song, please visit: thestrayun.bandcamp.com/track/clancy-of-the-overflow

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