2. On the basis of information found from the four diagnostics, the practitioner identifies a pattern within the theories of ECM that best describes the imbalance that is causing the patient's complaint. The pattern could be related to particular acupuncture channels, or to the function of one of the organs or bowels (as these aspects of the body are understood within traditional Chinese physiology and pathology), or to both.

3. On the basis of the predominant pattern of imbalance that is discerned, a treatment principle is erected that will resolve the imbalance by a heteropathic remedy. That means, whatever the nature of the problem is seen to be, a solution of the opposite nature will be applied to it. If, for example, the patient has a weakness of some aspect that aspect will be strengthened; if there is a problem of heat, it will be cooled; and so forth.

4. on the basis of the treatment principle, the practitioner will determine the precise treatment to be given based on his/her knowledge of what is most effective (and available )for accomplishing the goal in mind. Some specialists in acupuncture or herbs will just select the best acupuncture or herbal treatment that they have been trained to use in such situations. Many practitioners of TCM know both herbal treatments and acupuncture treatments, and they select whichever form of treatment is most suited for the patient in question. Patients can also be given Chinese massage, cupping, moxibustion, martial arts exercise, or other treatments, all depending upon the choice of what is most efficacious from the methods that are available.