How Did Paul Nogier Establish the Map of the Ear?

Abstract

Abstract

Objective:

This article describes the different methods that Paul Nogier, MD, used to study the correspondences between ear points and organs. This historical background allows readers to understand better the discovery and evolution of auriculotherapy.

Cartography Methods:

Starting with painful ear points, Paul Nogier extended the point detection using an electronic device that measures cutaneous resistivity and then palpating the auriculocardiac reflex (also known as the Reflex Auriculo Cardiac or RAC). Thus, he developed a detailed ear chart built on experimentation but also on the embryology and neuroanatomy. This article describes the historical context that allowed Paul Nogier to develop the ear cartographies.

Discussion:

Based on Paul Nogier's work, several schools created their proper ear charts. The current author tries to explain why there are discordances among the different ear maps and offers propositions to unify the ear-point localizations.

Conclusions:

The precise knowledge of the points' nature, the contribution of dynamic techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and cellular marking, might facilitate improvement in the precision of the auricular charts in future.