When treating channel problems, which type of distal points is considered the most powerful?

The most powerful distal points for treating channel problems are located on the feet. This is primarily due to the anatomical and energetic connections within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

When considering the pathways of the meridians, many of the primary channels that run through the body extend to the feet. By targeting these points, practitioners can effectively influence the flow of Qi (energy) throughout the entire channel system. The feet contain important acupuncture points that correspond to various organs and systems in the body, making them particularly effective for addressing imbalances.

Furthermore, the feet serve as a foundation for the body's structure and overall function. Stimulating points on the feet can elicit significant therapeutic effects, as they are distant from the area of imbalance yet closely connected through the meridian system. This allows practitioners to achieve a more profound impact on both local and systemic issues related to channel disturbances.

In contrast, while knee points, elbow points, and hand points can be useful for specific conditions or localized treatments, they do not hold the same level of influence across the entire meridian system when addressing generalized channel problems. This distinction is key in understanding the efficacy of acupuncture point selection within TCM practice.