Fascial Maps and Tung Anatomy • James Spears

#398

March 4, 2025

Acupuncture, Methods, Tung Acupuncture

Fascial Maps and Tung Anatomy
James Spears

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Fascia—it’s the connective web that holds us together, yet its role in acupuncture is often overlooked. What if understanding this intricate network could refine the way we think about acupuncture, movement, and healing?

In this conversation with James Spears, we explore the interaction of Tung acupuncture and the fascia. James shares his path from traditional acupuncture education to integrating fascial principles, bridging Eastern and Western perspectives in a way that brings a unique integrative view to clinical practice.

Listen into this discussion as we explore how fascia and acupuncture interact, why some Tung points work better than others in certain cases, the neurological effects of hand and foot points, and the overlooked role of structural alignment in musculoskeletal issues.

This conversation is a reminder that understanding the body’s physical architecture—its connective tissues, mechanical energy, and nervous system—can deepen our ability to help patients heal.

In this episode, we discuss:

The relationship between fascia and acupuncture effectiveness
Why Tung acupuncture works differently from standard point prescriptions
Understanding mechanical energy in acupuncture treatments
How fascial connections explain traditional acupuncture channels
The neurological impact of hand and foot acupuncture points
Structural alignment and its role in chronic pain conditions
The concept of needling fewer points for better results
How movement therapy informs acupuncture practice
Integrating Eastern and Western anatomical perspectives
The connection between fascia and extraordinary vessels
Palpation techniques to assess fascial restrictions
How emotional states are held within the fascial network
A practical approach to using fascia-informed needling in clinic

Use palpation to determine the best meridians and points to needle and use two or three points in close proximity.

James Spears M.S.

I have practiced acupuncture, somatic therapies, and yoga for over 23 years. I am passionate about sharing the medical arts, movement, meditation, and mind-body practices.

I graduated from the International Institute of Chinese Medicine in 2001 with a Masters degree in Oriental Medicine. I have also studied in five university hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Hangzhou. From 2008 – 2011. I lead educational tours to China for doctors and post-graduates. I have practiced and taught acupuncture and yoga in the US, Vietnam and Thailand.