5 Acupuncture points to stay away from digestive disorders
Amidst our CNY gatherings of eating, many may experience digestive discomforts such as indigestion and flatulence (abdominal bloating).
Keep these 5 easy acupuncture points in mind to stay away from digestive issues!
Do note that moderate pressure should be applied, with the aim of achieving a comfortable aching pain, stimulating each acupuncture point 10 times at intervals of 10 seconds.
1. Zusanli (ST 36), located 3 inches (about 4 finger widths) below the lower border of the patella, 1 finger width lateral from the anterior border of the tibia.
-Recommended after a heavy meal. [Figure 1]
-Known as the “point of longevity”, it relieves indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal bloating amongst other beneficial functions.
2. Qimen (LV 14), located on the mammillary line, directly below the nipple in the 6th intercostal space (ICS), 4 inches lateral to the midline. [Figure 2]
-Recommended after alcoholic intake
-Increases liver functionality and improves digestion.
3. Taichong (LV 3), located on the dorsum of the foot in a depression distal to the junctions of the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones (about two finger widths above the place where the skin of your big toe and the next toe join). [Figure 3]
-Recommended after heavy meal and alcohol intake
-Improves functionality of the stomach and liver, relieves abdominal bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
4. Pishu (BL 20), located 1.5 inches lateral to the posterior midline, on the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra (T11). [Figure 4]
5. Weishu (BL 21), located 1.5 inches lateral to the posterior midline, on the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra (T12). [Figure 5]
-Recommended for digestive weakness due to long term overeating
-Stimulating Pishu (BL 20) and Weishu (BL 21) can strengthen the digestive system and relieve gastrointestinal disorders.
* a tennis ball can be placed between the back and the bed or a wall to stimulate these points
Note: Information provided is not a substitute for a physician or any form of medical care. Individual symptoms differ due to different body constitutions. One should consult a licensed TCM practitioner for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
