Yang Arm Meridians & the Superficial Back Arm Line

Overview

Yang Arm Meridians & the Superficial Back Arm Line: Acupuncture Applications for Pain and Function is a concise, clinically focused online course presented by the Canadian Physiotherapy Association – Acupuncture and Dry Needling Division. This 45-minute course examines the relationship between traditional acupuncture meridians and the Superficial Back Arm Line (SBAL) - a key myofascial continuum that spans the posterior upper limb and is relevant to common presentations such as headaches, back pain, and upper-quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction.

Drawing from both classical meridian theory and myofascial anatomy, the course compares and contrasts specific acupuncture points along the SBAL and explores how they can be applied functionally in clinical practice. Participants will gain insight into how these points may influence regional and distal pain patterns, complementing broader acupuncture and needling strategies.

This course is ideal for clinicians seeking to deepen their understanding of how meridian-based frameworks integrate with myofascial assessment and needling approaches.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the anatomical and theoretical foundations of the Superficial Back Arm Line (SBAL) and its relationship to the Yang Arm meridians.

2. Identify key acupuncture points along the SBAL that may be relevant to headaches, back pain, and upper-limb dysfunction.

3. Compare and contrast point functions within the myofascial and meridian context to inform clinical needling decisions.

4. Integrate SBAL point selection with broader clinical reasoning in acupuncture and dry needling practice.

Audience

This course is designed for:

• Physiotherapists trained in acupuncture and dry needling who wish to expand their point selection repertoire.

• Clinicians treating headaches, back pain, and upper-quadrant musculoskeletal conditions.

• Practitioners interested in meridian-based and myofascial integration within needling care.

• Physiotherapists seeking continuing professional development in advanced acupuncture frameworks.

About the Presenter

James Spears, M.S

James has practiced acupuncture, somatic therapies, and yoga for over 20 years. In 2001, he graduated from the International Institute of Chinese Medicine with a Masters degree in Oriental Medicine. He has also studied in five university hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Hangzhou.

From 2008 - 2011 he lead educational tours to China for doctors and post-graduates. He has spent the last 14 years in Asia learning from a variety of teachers in related disciplines including acupuncture, manual therapies, and herbal medicine.

Why This Course Matters

Understanding how meridian theories intersect with myofascial anatomy enriches clinical reasoning and offers additional pathways for point selection in acupuncture and dry needling. The Superficial Back Arm Line extends through key structures involved in referred pain, postural patterns, and upper-body dysfunction — making it a useful conceptual and practical tool when addressing complex presentations.

This course provides:

• A bridge between traditional acupuncture theory and modern functional anatomy.

• Practical strategies for point selection that resonate with common clinical presentations.

• A concise framework that clinicians can incorporate into larger needling protocols.