The Spleen Yu acupoint belongs to the Bladder Meridian of Foot Shaoyang. The term "spleen" refers to the spleen organ, and "yu" means to transport. The name of this acupoint indicates that the damp-heat energy of the spleen organ is transported through the Bladder Meridian. Let's take a look at the accurate location of the Spleen Yu acupoint on the diagram below.
Accurate Location of the Spleen Yu Acupoint
Precise positioning: On the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra.
Simplified locating: Located on the back, from the 1st cervical vertebrae at the back of the neck to the 11th cervical vertebrae, 2 horizontal finger-widths lateral to the lower border.
Anatomical Description of the Spleen Yu Acupoint
Between the latissimus dorsi muscle, erector spinae muscle, and ilio-costal muscle; inner side branch of the posterior branch of the 11th intercostal artery and vein; innervated by the inner cutaneous branch of the posterior branch of the 11th thoracic nerve, with the deep layer being the outer side branch of the posterior branch.
Functions of the Spleen Yu Acupoint
The Spleen Yu acupoint belongs to the Bladder Meridian and is located on the back. It is the back-shu point of the spleen, where the essence and energy of the spleen are directly transported on the back. It can directly regulate the function of the cutaneous branches, treating spleen and stomach disorders. It can invigorate the spleen, eliminate dampness, regulate stomach qi, and treat disorders related to poor spleen function in transforming water and grains, such as stomach pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, poor appetite, diarrhea due to dampness in the intestines, edema caused by water retention in the muscles, jaundice caused by damp-heat fumigating the liver and gallbladder, dysentery caused by damp-heat obstructing the large intestine, and suppurative ulceration. The spleen governs central qi, and the spleen and stomach are the source of qi and blood production. Therefore, this acupoint can benefit qi, nourish blood, and tonify the spleen to regulate blood, and is used to treat various deficiencies of qi and blood, weak constitution, and bleeding disorders caused by spleen deficiency, such as rectal bleeding, uterine bleeding, etc. It can also promote local meridian qi circulation, dispel cold and dampness obstruction, and treat back pain.
Application Methods of the Spleen Yu Acupoint
To treat gastric diseases, combine with Zhangmen (LR13) and Zusanli (ST36) to invigorate the spleen and regulate the stomach. To treat diarrhea, combine with Wei Gu (ST40) and Shen Yu (KI9) to warm and invigorate the middle energizer and stop diarrhea. To treat frequent urination and edema, combine with Yinlingquan (SP9) and Zhongji (CV3) to warm and tonify the spleen yang, promote qi circulation, and eliminate water retention. To treat jaundice, combine with Yinlingquan (SP9) and Yanglingquan (GB34) to warm and transform cold-dampness, and regulate the liver and gallbladder.
Massage Techniques for Nurturing the Spleen Yu Acupoint
Rub or tap the Spleen Yu acupoint with both hands, or use a massage hammer to stimulate it for 1-3 minutes each time. Consistent massage over a long period of time can enhance the function of the spleen and stomach, aid digestion and absorption, and prevent spleen and stomach disorders.
