ACUPUNCTURE
Shi Qi Zhui Xia: TCM Acupoint Guide
SHIQIZHUIXIA
Name
Shi Qi Zhui Xia (Shiqizhuixia)
Location
On the midline of the lower back, in the depression below the spinous process of the fifth lumbar vertebra.
Needling
- Perpendicular insertion, 0.5 to 1 cun.
- Caution: the spinal canal lies between 1.25 and 1.75 cun deep to the skin surface, varying according to body build.
- Straight insertion, 1.5 to 2 cun. Sensation: local distention and numbness extending to the buttocks; if the insertion is deep, an electric sensation extending down the leg.
- Puncture perpendicularly, 0.8 to 1.2 cun.
- Moxibustion is applicable.
Actions
- Tonifies the kidneys
- Promotes urination
- Activates the channel
- Alleviates pain
- Benefits the back
Indications
- Pain of the lumbar region and legs
- Difficult urination
- Fetus pressing on the bladder
- Dysmenorrhea
- Sequelae of infantile paralysis
- Hemorrhoids
- Dysuria
- Irregular menstruation
- Pain and stiffness in the lumbosacral region
- Sciatica
- Functional uterine bleeding
- Anal diseases
- Traumatic paraplegia
- Thigh pain
Notes
This is one of the most commonly used points for chronic back pain. It can be used for both deficiency and excess conditions.
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.
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