Lung Threading Balance Method Video Guide: Back Pain Relief

This threading technique is your "holographic bridge" for clearing entire pain zones in the back that single-point needling often misses. The LU-9.5 to LU-10.3 "Thread-through" is a master move used by Dr. Tan in his Balance Method. Instead of targeting one point, you capture an entire anatomical stretch—mirroring the leg or imaging the UB channel on the back—making it your go-to protocol for resetting large areas of pain with a single, powerful needle.

Quick Stats

  • Video Duration: 24 seconds

  • Key Conditions: Lower back pain, mid-back tension, hand pain, leg pain

  • Alternative Names: Small Metacarpal Image

Balance Method LU-9.5 to LU-10.3 Logic

Here's the deal: sometimes a single point isn't enough to capture a large area of stagnation in the back. By threading the Lung meridian from LU-9.5 through to LU-10.3, you are creating a holographic bridge that mirrors the full length of the spine (Urinary Bladder Channel). This technique leverages the Lung channel's relationship with the Spleen, Urinary Bladder, Large Intestine and Liver channels, allowing you to treat extensive back issues with precision and power.

  • Watch: the Full  LU-9.5 through to LU-10.3 thread through Needling Demo here 

Lung Threading Technique video

LU-9.5 to LU-10.3 Treatment Applications (Systems 1-6)

This threading technique is a heavy hitter for back complaints. By bridging these fragmented points, you activate a holographic mirror that covers the entire spinal column.

(Every back pain combination is ready for your clinic in the Balance Method Notebook—grab it here.)


  • System 1: Spleen (SP)

    • Treats:Opposite side abdominal tension, foot pain, chest pain, leg pain.

  • System 2: Urinary Bladder (UB)

    • Treats: Either side back pain, foot pain, leg pain, head pain.

  • System 3: Large Intestine (LI)

    • Treats: Opposite side hand pain, arm pain, face pain.

  • System 4: Urinary Bladder (UB)

    • Treats: Either side back pain, foot pain, leg pain, head pain.

  • System 5: Liver (LIV)

    • Treats: Opposite side abdominal tension, foot pain, chest pain, leg pain.

  • System 6: Lung (LU)

    • Treats: Either side hand pain, arm pain.

Balance Method Threading Protocol

Here is exactly how to execute this "Master" threading move safely.

Location:

Start your needle at either LU-9.5 and thread it proximally toward LU-10.3 on the Lung meridian, or start at LU-10.3 and thread to LU-9.5.

Pro Tip:
Keep the needle parallel to the bone to ensure you stay within the meridian; you can put your finger along the bone to follow it.

Depth (ASS):

Follow the ASS principle. Since this is primarily used for back pain, ensure you treat the full back, not just a single area.

Retention:

Always leave the needle for 45 minutes.

Immediate Check:

Have the patient move their back or the affected area immediately. If the pain doesn't shift, your angle or depth needs a quick adjustment.

How to palpate precisely Balance Method Notebook - Dr. Tan Balance Method

Full in-depth explanation of the importance of palpation

 

What You'll See (Expected Results)

  • Immediate (on the table): A significant loosening sensation in the back.

  • 1-3 Sessions: Perfect for acute "locked" backs where movement is restricted.

  • 4-7 Sessions: The standard timeframe for long-term back rebalancing.



Watch Out For (Safety & Mistakes)

  • Radial Artery: Be mindful of the radial pulse. Stay on the Lung meridian path and away from the artery.

  • Common Mistake: Moving the needle too fast; this may be painful. Communicate with your patient and ask them to tell you when it hurts—readjust your needle in another direction and proceed slowly.

  • No Result? If the back pain doesn't budge, you likely need a bigger projection or a better projection for the specific area that stays painful (called tough shit).


Want More?

Full in-depth explanation of tough shit (remaining pain) and the importance of enlarging the projection if needed

Watch also: Needling Small Intestine 4 (The Million Dollar $ point)

New to the Balance Method?

Start with the basics in our complete guide or master the system through official training with the direct students of Dr. Tan.

To get clinical results like this every day, join our Global Community to discuss cases with experts, and grab your copy of The Balance Method Notebook to unlock every treatment combination.

About the Authors: Laurence & Olivier

Laurence and Olivier are specialized Balance Method practitioners based in Terneuzen, Netherlands. They trained under Dr. Delphine Armand from Si Yuan and treat up to 100 patients weekly in their practice, Acusana Acupunctuur.

  • Laurence taught and coordinated programs at Si Yuan for years. She developed the illustrated notes that are now used worldwide as the Balance Method Notebook.
  • Olivier made complex teachings digitally accessible globally through video platforms and launched this independent knowledge hub.

Through this platform, they continue to build on Dr. Tan's core philosophy: "Share everything, keep nothing, help everyone."


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How to Treat Shoulder Pain and Frozen Shoulder with Dr. Tan's Balance Method: The Million Dollar Combo