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ACUPUNCTURE

Qi Hai Shu: TCM Acupoint Guide

QIHAISHU
By the TCMHH editorial team Not medically reviewed How we work Updated 6 Oct 2026
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Name

Qi Hai Shu (Qihaishu)

Location

1.5 cun lateral to the lower end of the spinous process of the third lumbar vertebra. Note: locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.

Needling

  • Straight insertion pointed slightly toward the spine, 1.5 to 2 cun. Sensation: distention in the lower back or an electric, numb sensation extending toward the buttocks and lower extremities.
  • Caution: care should be taken not to insert the needle too deeply, or away from the spine, to avoid puncturing the kidneys.
  • Puncture perpendicularly, 0.8 to 1.2 cun.
  • Perpendicular insertion, 1 to 1.5 cun.
  • Moxibustion is applicable.

Actions

  • Regulates qi and blood
  • Strengthens the lower back and knees
  • Removes obstruction from the channel
  • Regulates the Lower Jiao

Indications

  • Low back pain
  • Paralysis of the lower limbs
  • Irregular menstruation
  • Spermatorrhea
  • Impotence
  • Chronic enteritis
  • Dysmenorrhea
  • Asthma
  • Functional uterine bleeding
  • Bi pain of the lower limb
  • Leukorrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vaginal discharge with blood
  • Diarrhea
  • Lower abdominal distention
  • Continuous vomiting
  • Knee pain
  • Numb and stiff lower limbs
  • Scrofula
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Bleeding hemorrhoids
  • Paralysis of the lower limbs
  • Atrophy disorder

Notes

This is a frequently used local point for chronic and acute lower back pain.

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Sources and further reading

We cite classical materia medica and modern reference works. This article is health education, not medical advice.

  • Shennong Bencao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), Han dynasty.
  • Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica), Li Shizhen, 1578.
  • Chinese Pharmacopoeia, current edition — identity, quality and safety monographs.
  • NCCIH and WHO reference material on traditional medicine safety.

Spotted an error or a better source? Tell us — corrections are logged on our editorial policy page.

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