In common with all injuries affecting connective tissues, treatment of this condition in Chinese medicine is directed toward relaxing the muscles and facilitating circulation through the affected channels.

Needling

Principal points:

Point( s) of tenderness

Supplementary points:

GB-39 (Xuanzhong), Sp-6 (Sanyinjiao)

Method:

First needle the point( s) of tenderness with moderate stimulation. If the result is
unsatisfactory, add the supplementary points using strong stimulation. For injuries to the ligaments on the medial side, use Sp-6 (Sanyinjiao); on the lateral side, use GB-39 (Xuanzhong).

Cutaneous acupuncture and cupping

Tap along the affected area until there is slight bleeding, then apply cups for 3-5 minutes.

Moxibustion

Warm the affected area with moxa sticks for 1(}.15 minutes.

Remarks

• Acupuncture therapy is suitable for strained or sprained ankle. If the ligaments have torn, surgery must be considered.

Note: The above text is original in English and is from “Acupuncture, A Comprehensive Text, Shanghai College of Traditional Medicine translated and edited by John O’Connor and Dan Bensky, 1981”