Acupoint Shu Gu, the 65th acupoint of the Bladder Meridian of Foot-Taiyang, Shu means to bind or restrict, and Gu means water. The name of this acupoint implies that the cold and damp water Qi of the Bladder Meridian gathers here and cannot ascend. This acupoint is where the cold and damp water Qi from the upper part of the Bladder Meridian, which descends, and the Yang Qi from the lower part of the meridian, which ascends, meet and gather. It is neither able to ascend nor descend, as if it is bound, hence the name. It is commonly used with Kidney Shu and Taichong points to treat dizziness and vertigo.
[Origin of the Shu Gu Acupoint]
Shu means to gather or bind, and Gu means to restrain or restrict. The small toe is called "Shu Gu" because its bones are arranged loosely and can be restrained. Since this acupoint is located on the side of the Shu Gu, it is named accordingly.
[Location of the Shu Gu Acupoint]
Located on the lateral side of the foot, posterior to the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint at the junction of the red and white skin.
[Anatomical Structure of the Shu Gu Acupoint]
Located beneath the extensor digiti minimi muscle of the little toe; crossed by the dorsal and plantar veins of the fourth toe; innervated by the lateral branch of the fourth toe dorsal nerve and the lateral cutaneous nerve of the foot.
[Main Functions and Indications]
Headache, dizziness, red and painful eyes, deafness, stiff neck, mania, boils, back pain, pain in the posterior side of the lower limb.
[Complementary Acupoints]
Shu Gu Acupoint is commonly paired with Kidney Shu and Taichong points to treat dizziness and vertigo.
Shu Gu Acupoint is commonly paired with Yinmen and Kunlun points to relax tendons, promote blood circulation, and relieve pain. It is used to treat back pain and sciatica.
Shu Gu Acupoint is commonly paired with Baihui and Ganyu points to clear the head and eyes, regulate the circulation of Qi and blood, and calm the liver wind. It is used to treat headaches and dizziness.
[Acupoint Health Care]
Massage of the Shu Gu Acupoint: Promotes circulation of Qi and blood, dispels wind and heat, and clears and benefits the head and eyes.
Acupuncture Method:
Insert the needle directly 0.3-0.5 cun, local soreness and distension, the needle sensation can spread to the dorsum of the foot.
Moxibustion Method:
Apply moxa for 3-5 cones or warm moxibustion for 5-10 minutes.
[Benefits of the Shu Gu Acupoint]
Boosts Qi, strengthens Yang, and distributes water and dampness.
