Very few acupuncturists today use the tendon channels for anything other than symptomatic treatments to relieve localized muscular pain. Other concepts of meridians, such as divergent channels related to the longitudinal relationships between acupuncture points, were probably also applied in various treatment systems used through history, but the original design behind these seldom applied concepts is lost. Actually, any number of diagnostic paradigms can be applied as the basis for a system of treatment. Nevertheless, as long as the issue is one of imbalances, the question is to assess the difference between the two complementary factors. In practice, however, both treatment systems are necessary like two wheels to an axle.
Today there is a mend favoring symptomatic treatments over general treatments.
It thus serves to clear the way for the procedures to follow. When successful, it is sufficient in itself. At the very least, it simplifies the rest of the treatment. Specific factors such as individual differences and constitution are taken into consideration. It requires some simple and verifiable diagnostic checks.