ABSTRACT
On the base of the paradigms of clinical studies on modern moxibustion by identifying the acupoint sensitization, the records of ancient literature in successive dynasties were collected on "identifying the sensitization" of acupoints in acupuncture. In association with acupoint detection of acupuncture recorded in current textbooks, a novel concept, "exerting acupuncture by identifying the acupoint sensitization" is proposed. Acupoint sensitization is the common initial link of effect achieved by both acupuncture and moxibustion. Hence, on the basis of the routine acupoint selection by differentiating syndrome, the state of acupoint must be considerably emphasized in either acupuncture or moxibustion. The clinical curative effect may be improved by selecting the sensitized points and identifying sensitization. This novel mode of diagnosis and treatment focuses on identifying acupoint sensitization by unifying acupuncture with moxibustion and in coincidence with the modern clinical characteristics of either acupuncture or moxibustion.