Yang, nourish, and nurture. Old, compared to young, signifies respect for age. The name of this acupoint refers to the hot qi that comes from the Yanggu acupoint, which then expands and transforms into pure yang qi with less dampness after leaving this acupoint. The nature of this qi is similar to the yang qi in the head, hence the name. Now let's explain in detail the accurate location and function of the Yanggu acupoint.
Accurate location of the Yanggu acupoint
On the back of the forearm, on the ulnar side near the proximal end of the ulnar head recess. When locating the acupoint, the elbow should be flexed with the palm facing the chest.
Simplified location: On the back of the forearm, on the side of the little finger, there is a prominent bone, which is the ulna. The depression on the ulna is the acupoint.
Anatomy of the Yanggu acupoint
On the back of the ulna, between the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon and the intrinsic extensor tendon of the little finger; it is supplied by the dorsal branch of the interosseous artery and vein, as well as the dorsal cutaneous nerve of the forearm and the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve.
Functions and effects of the Yanggu acupoint
Category: It belongs to the Xi acupoint of the Small Intestine Meridian.
Functions: It regulates the meridian and relieves pain, nourishes yin and improves vision.
Indications: 1. Blurred vision, deafness; 2. Shoulder and arm pain, stiff neck and back, lower back pain.
Mechanism of action: The Yanggu acupoint belongs to the Small Intestine Meridian, specifically the Xi acupoint of the Small Intestine Meridian. It is the place where the qi of the Small Intestine Meridian gathers deeply, so it is good at regulating the meridian and relieving severe pain in the meridian pathway. The qi of the Small Intestine Meridian connects with the Du Meridian and the Bladder Meridian, so this acupoint can also treat stiff neck and back pain related to these two meridians, as well as lower back pain. Additionally, as the meridian pathway passes through the eyes and ears, stimulating this acupoint can promote the circulation of qi and transport qi, blood, yin, and fluids to the eyes and ears, which is beneficial for treating hearing loss and dizziness caused by insufficient qi in the elderly. Furthermore, as the heart and the Small Intestine Meridian are connected, stimulating this acupoint can redirect the excessive heat in the heart downwards, achieving the effect of clearing heat and improving vision, making it suitable for people with poor vision caused by excessive heat.
Common combinations for the Yanggu acupoint in treatment
For shoulder, arm, neck, and back pain, it can be combined with Tianzong and Jianzhen. For hearing loss and dizziness in the elderly, it can be combined with Ganshu, Shenshu, Tinggong, and Jingming. For blurred vision caused by excessive heat, it can be combined with Taiyang, Hegu, and Fengchi.
Healthcare massage therapy for the Yanggu acupoint
Use the fingertip of the index finger to press and knead the Yanggu acupoint vertically downwards for 1-3 minutes each time. Persisting in this massage therapy long-term can promote blood circulation, strengthen the body, and prevent cerebrovascular diseases, ensuring the health and longevity of the elderly.
