Correctly massaging the Lígōu acupoint is beneficial for our overall health. By massaging the Lígōu acupoint daily, we can relieve urinary difficulties, bedwetting, irregular menstruation, and vaginal itching. But how do we locate the Lígōu acupoint?
【Massage Method for the Lígōu Acupoint】
Many people may not be familiar with the proper massage method for the Lígōu acupoint. In fact, there is a specific technique for massaging this acupoint. We need to learn the proper method in order to effectively massage the Lígōu acupoint.
Patients should assume a comfortable position (sitting or lying down) and use the thumbs to apply pressure on both sides of the Lígōu acupoint. Apply rubbing and kneading motions, causing a local sensation of soreness, swelling, and pain. Then, flex and extend the ankle joint to enhance the pressure sensation. Finally, use rubbing motions to relax the area.
Massage for 5-10 minutes each time. In acute cases, massage 2-3 times daily. In chronic cases, massage daily or every other day.
【How to Locate the Lígōu Acupoint】
1. Standard Positioning
The Lígōu acupoint is located on the inside of the lower leg, 5 cun above the tip of the medial malleolus, in the center of the medial side of the tibia.
2. Acupoint Selection Method
Sit or lie down in a proper position. Draw a horizontal line on the medial side of the tibia, 5 cun above the tip of the medial malleolus. The acupoint is located at the intersection of the posterior 1/3 and the middle of the medial side of the tibia.
Sit or lie down in a proper position. The acupoint is located at the intersection of the upper 2/3 and the lower 1/3 of the line connecting the patella and the tip of the medial malleolus, in the center of the medial side of the tibia.
Quick acupoint selection: In a sitting position, measure 7 horizontal finger-widths vertically upward from the tip of the medial malleolus. The Lígōu acupoint is located at the depression on the medial side of the tibia.
3. Acupoint Anatomy
Below the Lígōu acupoint are the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and the gastrocnemius muscle. The skin is innervated by the sural nerve. The subcutaneous tissue is loose and contains superficial veins, cutaneous nerves, and superficial lymphatic vessels.
The great saphenous vein and the sural nerve run together, originating from the medial side of the dorsal venous network of the foot, and ascend anteriorly to the medial side of the lower leg.
The superficial lymphatic vessels of the lower limb originate from the toes and converge into a lymphatic network on the dorsum and sole of the foot. Most of the superficial lymphatic vessels join the femoral superficial lymph nodes along with their tributaries along the great saphenous vein.
Only a small number of superficial lymphatic vessels join the popliteal lymph nodes along with the short saphenous vein. When needling, if the needle penetrates through the skin, subcutaneous fascia, and deep fascia of the lower leg, it will directly reach the periosteum of the unprotected tibia.
Alternatively, the needle can penetrate through the medial side of the tibia and reach the gastrocnemius muscle, specifically the soleus muscle. This muscle is innervated by the tibial nerve.
