Which acupoint should be moxibusted for meniscus discomfort?
Generally, for discomfort caused by meniscus issues, moxibustion can be applied to acupoints such as the Xiyan (ST Knee Eye), Liangqiu (ST-34), Xuehai (SP-10), Yinlingquan (SP-9), and Yanglingquan (GB-34). Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Xiyan (ST Knee Eye)
Located on the medial side of the knee joint, Xiyan is an acupoint of the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian. Moxibustion on Xiyan helps dispel wind and dampness, relax tendons and promote circulation, and alleviate pain and swelling caused by meniscus injuries.
2. Liangqiu (ST-34)
Liangqiu is located in the anterior thigh region, two cun above the superior border of the patella, between the tendons of the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles. Moxibustion on Liangqiu can also relieve pain caused by meniscus injuries.
3. Xuehai (SP-10)
Xuehai is located on the medial side of the thigh, two cun above the medial end of the patella, at the prominence of the vastus medialis muscle. Moxibustion on Xuehai promotes blood circulation, removes blood stasis, regulates menstruation, and alleviates pain and swelling after meniscus injury.
4. Yinlingquan (SP-9)
Yinlingquan is located on the medial side of the lower leg, in the depression below the medial condyle and along the medial border of the tibia. Moxibustion on Yinlingquan also helps relieve pain caused by meniscus injuries.
5. Yanglingquan (GB-34)
Yanglingquan is located on the lateral side of the lower leg, in the depression anterior and inferior to the head of the fibula. Moxibustion on Yanglingquan also has the effect of promoting circulation and relieving pain, making it suitable for treating meniscus injuries.
Moxibustion treatments should be performed by a professional physician or TCM practitioner who can determine the appropriate acupoints based on individual conditions. Self-treatment is not recommended to avoid adverse effects. For severe meniscus injuries that affect normal walking or daily life, timely medical consultation is advised.