Distal Channel Palpation and Diagnosis in Musculoskeletal Complaints Based on Applied Channel Theory and the Channel Sinews (經筋 jīng jīn)

Workshop Information

This two-day workshop will focus on generating effective acupuncture treatments for common musculoskeletal complaints. In particular, the class will explore the use of distal channel palpation for determining main channel effected, nature of the involved pathomechanism and likely foci for ‘upstream’ local needling. The class will involve extensive hands-on practice by attendees. Practice will be guided by instructor demonstration of techniques for diagnosis through palpation of channel pathways and precise point location.

Based on his experience in a busy private practice in Seattle USA, Dr. Robertson will cover many of the complaints seen in acupuncture practices around the world. Common complaints in the neck, low back, head, hips, shoulders, knees and elbows will be differentiated by channels affected. Distal treatment strategies will be described and, in some cases demonstrated. This class builds upon and draws from the life-work of Beijing professor Wang Ju-Yi (王居易）and the six-channel based diagnostic system described in the text Applied Channel Theory in Chinese Medicine (Eastland Press, Seattle). As co-author of that text and longtime apprentice of Dr. Wang, Jason will bring a wealth of information regarding conceptions of structural disorders and the concept of the channel sinews (經筋 jīng jīn) from the perspective of classical Chinese medicine.

*PRC diploma students will receive 1 ACU/OM credit for this workshop.

Workshop Instructor

Jason D. Robertson DAHM is the co-author of Applied Channel Theory in Chinese Medicine (Eastland Press, 2008) with his teacher Professor Wang Ju-yi (王居易). Mr. Robertson has studied Chinese language for 25 years and studied Chinese medicine in Chengdu and Beijing. He currently maintains a private practice in Seattle, WA and is a full-time faculty member at the Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine (www.sieam.edu). Dr. Robertson has taught courses on channel theory and diagnosis around the world and has been recognized by the Beijing Administration of Chinese Medicine as an official apprentice of Wang Juyi.

More information about Applied Channel Theory, including articles in both English and Chinese, can be found at www.channelpalpation.org

Workshop Prerequisites

Prior study in any of Jason Robertson’s courses or with recognized apprentices of Wang Juyi. Courses include ACU229 An Introduction to Applied Channel Theory, ACU245 Channel Examination & Diagnosis, ACU345 Applied Channel Theory Clinicals: Diagnosis & Treatment, OM235 Channel Palpation & Diagnosis

Workshop Dates

Saturday and Sunday, January 24-25, 2026, 9:00am-5:00pm

Workshop Format

On Campus

Workshop Tuition

Regular – $375 (Early Bird – $350, until January 5)
Students – $350 (Early Bird – $325, until January 5)
PRC Alumni – $360 (Early Bird – $335, until January 5)

Withdrawal Policy

For workshop withdrawals submitted in writing 30 days or more before the start of the workshop, registrants will receive a full tuition refund less a $40 non-refundable registration fee. For workshop withdrawals submitted in writing more than 14 days but less than 30 days before the start of the workshop, registrants will receive a 50% tuition refund. Without exception, no refunds will be given for withdrawals less than 14 days before the start of the workshop.