First of all, they are quite different from each other. The following are some key differences:

1. How to locate the treatment points

The Japanese style of acupuncture (JPA) uses many touches in the diagnosis and treatment processes. The acupuncture points for treatment are carefully located not only by the instructions on the anatomical structure but also by examining the condition of the skin and muscles in terms of weakness and tightness. Whereas, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctors use only anatomical locations for locating the treatment points.

2. Assessment during and after treatment:

JPA pays much attention to the assessment of the treatments. The doctor of JPA frequently takes pulses and palpates many points and areas of the patient to assess how the patient responds to the treatment. Whereas, Doctors of TCM do much less or no assessment during their treatment.

3. Needling techniques:

JPA employs various kinds of needling techniques including contact needling, brushing needling, insertion needling, and so on. Whereas, TCM uses only the insertion and retention needling technique.

4. Sensations of needling

JPA doctors try to avoid uncomfortable sensations from needling and always look for a comfortable experience during the treatment sessions. Whereas, TCM doctors look for strong sensations from needling, which is illustrated by the phrase "No pain, no gain."

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