Distal curative effect is the feature of the acupoints on the fourteen meridians, especially the acupoints of the twelve meridians located below the knees and elbows　which not only can be needled to treat disorders of the regional tissues, but also can be applied to treat the disorders of the viscera, tissues and organs associated with the meridians in their distribution. Some of the meridian acupoints even can be needled to treat the disorders of the whole body. That is what “the indication extends to where the meridian reaches” means.
For example, Zusanli (ST 36), located on the shank, can be needled to treat flaccidity and pain of the lower limbs with its proximal curative effect on one hand, and on the other, treat disorders of the spleen and stomach which the stomach meridian (Zusanli (ST 36) is located) connects with or pertains to as well as disorders of the head and face where the meridian runs through. Besides, Zusanli (ST 36) can be used as a key acupoint for healthcare because it can be needled to supplement healthy qi for the body and reinforce the resistance of the body to exert distal curative effect.