Which artery is cautioned against when needling SP-11?

The correct choice regarding the artery that is cautioned against when needling SP-11 is the femoral artery. Acupuncture point SP-11, located on the medial aspect of the thigh, is situated near significant blood vessels. The femoral artery runs deep and close to the region of SP-11. Needling in this area presents a risk of injury to the femoral artery due to its position relative to the point.

When performing acupuncture in this area, practitioners must be particularly cautious to avoid penetrating too deeply, which could potentially lead to complications such as hematoma or excessive bleeding, should the femoral artery be inadvertently damaged. Knowledge of the anatomical relationships surrounding acupuncture points is crucial for ensuring safety and effectiveness in treatment. Meanwhile, the other arteries listed, such as the popliteal artery, ulnar artery, and carotid artery, are located in different regions and do not pose a direct risk while needling SP-11, making them less relevant in this context.