Dynamic Points

Here is the definitive definition, given by Wei Jia in 2008:

“动穴”，即动态型俞穴的简称。乃指遍布体表、无具体名称、数量、无固定部位、且隐现无常或呈游移状态，如阿是等一类俞穴即是。是与简称“静穴”的另一类各有特殊名称、有一定数量、且有固定部位而相对不变的静态型俞穴，如十四经穴、经外奇穴相对而言的。

Here is a non-definitive first draft translation into a second language:

"Dynamic points" is the abbreviation for dynamic state movement holes. It refers to movement holes distributed over the surface of the body that have the following characteristics: no fixed name, quantity, or location; in a hidden or mobile state. An example would be 'A-shi' points. This definition is given in contrast to "static points", referring to those movement holes that have special names, a certain quantity, fixed locations, and are relatively unchanging; ie. are in a static state. For example, points of the 14 channels and extraordinary non-channel points.

Dear Reader: if you are restricted to reading my English version, please do not assume that I have fully represented Wei Jia's original meaning! I am not that confident.

The Chinese text is a quote from “动穴疗效钩玄” 中医药通报 2008年2月 第7卷 第1期. It (and its sister article 动穴定位钩玄) is a wonderful article, and I hope to be able to present the thoughts it contains in this blog without quoting it in its entirety (which would be illegal, right?)

Dr Wei's definition draws a clear distinction that is especially helpful for talking about the way information about acupoints is taught. When it comes to clinical usage the distinction becomes less clear, but it is still a good starting point for discussion.