Multiple Style Integration and Synthesis in the Acupuncture Clinic

Acupuncturists are routinely faced with accommodating multiple clinical styles and perspectives within their
practice. The integration and synthesis of distinct acupuncture styles can be a formidable challenge. A framework
for clarifying this process is presented here. Three distinct scenarios are considered: (1) integration through simple
additive combination, (2) integration through enlarging the tool-chest of choices, and (3) integration leading to
synthesis. The author’s clinical experience with a particular Matsumoto-Nagano acupuncture protocol and classical
Neijing pulse-taking is presented a s an example of synthesis emergence through c ritical c linical self-inquiry. The
phases of clinician development required to enable synthesis are discussed.