Anatomy & Acupuncture Cadaveric CPD Course, London, 26th June 2025

While not mandatory for practice, there are some potential benefits for acupuncturists to observe a cadaver dissection:

• Improved anatomical understanding: Acupuncture points are based on specific locations along channels. Dissection offers a firsthand view of the underlying muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, which can improve an acupuncturist’s understanding of the meridians’ course and relationship to anatomical structures.

• Enhanced needle placement accuracy: Precise needle placement is crucial in acupuncture. Observing dissections can solidify the acupuncturist’s understanding of the three-dimensional relationships between acupuncture points, organs, and other structures. This can lead to more accurate and effective needle placement.

• Deeper appreciation for body mechanics: Witnessing the body’s intricate network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments can provide acupuncturists with a deeper appreciation for how the body moves and functions. This knowledge can be helpful in understanding musculoskeletal issues and formulating treatment plans.

• Potential for research: Cadaver dissections can be used for research purposes to explore the anatomical basis of acupuncture points and their effects on the body. Some acupuncturists may be interested in contributing to this field of study.

However, it’s important to consider some factors:

• Emotional response: Dissections can be emotionally challenging for some people.

• Limited application: Acupuncture meridians will not be directly observable during dissection.  The dissection will be carried out by an experienced Dissector who may have no knowledge of acupuncture.  The afternoon session will be led by Acupuncturist Kevin Young.

• Availability and Cost: Cadaver dissection courses specifically for acupuncturists are not common.  AAC have tried to ensure a low cost course

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to observe a cadaver dissection is a personal one.

Morning – Anatomical lecture and demonstration with a cadaver led by an anatomist

Afternoon – needling demonstration with Kevin Young so that we can really appreciate the anatomy of our patients in general as well as to truly appreciate safe needle depth

• Exploring anatomical structures and needling cautionary acupuncture points/locations.
• Identifying the depths of internal organs and structures to inform needling techniques.
• Locating specific nerves and structures/points, including key ligaments, muscles and tendons.
• Revision of safety in regard to key areas, including perineal nerve, upper trapezius, lungs, anterior/posterior rib cage and intercostal
  Bladder points.
• Advanced needling techniques, including thread needling for tendons

This is a practical demonstration with a cadaver.  Please do not attend if you are squeamish.

Once you have attended the course, you will be sent a CPD certificate.  This course is 6 CPD points.

• You must be 18 years or older and understand spoken and written English.
• You must be an acupuncturist
• You must be prepared to watch live demonstrations of a cadaver and dissection.