The Fengchi acupoint belongs to the Gallbladder Meridian of Foot Shaoyang, located below the occipital bone on the posterior side of the neck, on both sides of the hairline. This acupoint is where wind pathogen invades and lingers, hence its name Fengchi. Let's take a look at the causes of Fengchi pain.
Causes of Fengchi Pain
The Fengchi acupoint is located parallel to the posterior big tendon of the neck. The pain in this acupoint is often related to cervical problems, lumbago, kidney deficiency, or injuries caused by improper exertion.
Fengchi Pain Caused by Cervical Fatigue
When the cervical spine is fatigued or excessively fatigued, it compresses the nerve roots and causes ischemia of the vertebral basilar artery. This leads to a sour and painful sensation in the neck. Since the Fengchi acupoint is located near the neck, it also experiences pain. The blood supply to the brain is also affected, leading to dizziness and poor sleep.
Fengchi Pain Caused by Wind-Cold-Damp Pathogen
Wind-cold belongs to the Gallbladder Meridian of Foot Shaoyang and is the intersection of the Gallbladder Meridian of Foot Shaoyang and the Yangwei Meridian. When the body is invaded by excessive wind-cold-damp pathogen, the Fengchi acupoint will be the first to sense it, resulting in pain.
Treatment for Fengchi Pain
When there is pain in the Fengchi acupoint, it can be treated through examination to determine the specific cause, and then receive massage, guasha, or moxibustion under the guidance of a doctor.
Massage: Use the thumb to knead the Fengchi acupoint for 3-5 minutes. The degree of pressure should be based on local soreness and swelling. Combining with Dazhui and Houxi can dispel wind, activate collaterals, and relieve pain.
Guasha: Use scraping method to press the Fengchi acupoint 30 times, to the degree of local soreness. Combining with Jingming, Taiyang, and Taichong can improve eyesight and relieve pain.
Moxibustion: Use mild moxibustion on the Fengchi acupoint for 5-10 minutes, until the patient feels warmth and comfort. Combining with Yangbai, Quanliao, and Jiache can promote qi circulation and activate blood.
Self-Treatment Methods for Fengchi Pain
Naturally spread out both hands with fingers open, press the Fengchi acupoint on both sides firmly against the back of the head, and push up and down with force until a slight soreness is felt. Pregnant women should be cautious when applying pressure.
