Laser acupuncture was introduced to clinical settings in the 1970s as a supplement to conventional acupuncture. Laser acupuncture uses nonthermal laser irradiation on conventional acupoints at low intensity. It can perform acupuncture and moxibustion simultaneously using different pulse waves. In all patient populations, Laser acupuncture may be preferred. This preference is due to its noninvasiveness, comfort, and reduced side effects. Laser acupuncture sessions are shorter than metal needle sessions. Portable Laser acupuncture devices can provide convenient, efficient, and cost-effective therapy.
At a training course convened by Wen-Long Hu and Han-Ching Wang in Vancouver, BC, Canada, in August 2024, a group of TCM clinicians decided to start a professional association dedicated to laser acupuncture therapy. These pioneers, driven by the endless energy of Kuo-Hsiang Chu, brought laser acupuncture to the forefront of Chinese medical science; not only a complementary therapeutic intervention, but also an alternative treatment in its own right. Three months later, the Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine Laser Acupuncture and Cosmetic of British Columbia was formally incorporated as an organization. It is my sincere expectation that ATCMLAC will become the leading professional association dedicated to laser acupuncture treatment.
Wen-Long Hu
Professor
Department of Chinese Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
Kaohsiung Medical University College of Medicine, Taiwan
Fooyin University College of Nursing, Taiwan
Honorary President, Taiwan TCM Medical Association President, Society of Taiwan Integration of Chinese and Western Ophthalmology