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What acupoints are located at the back of the head?

Dec 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, there are several acupoints at the back of the head, including Fengchi (GB20), Fengfu (GV16), Yammen (GV15), Tianzhu (BL10), and Yuzhen (BL9). It is recommended to choose a suitable pillow and sleeping position to maintain head comfort and avoid pressure or excessive friction on the back of the head. At the same time, avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods, such as looking down at a mobile phone or computer, to reduce strain on the back of the head.

Generally, there are several acupoints on the back of the head, including Fengchi (GB20), Fengfu (GV16), Yammen (GV15), Tianzhu (BL10), and Yuzhen (BL9). Detailed descriptions are as follows:

1. Fengchi (GB20)

Fengchi is located in the hollow at the lateral side of the two prominent tendons on the posterior hairline, beneath the occipital bone, between the upper portions of the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. It belongs to the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian. Fengchi functions to dispel wind and clear heat, open the sensory orifices, calm the mind, and refresh the brain. It can help relieve headaches caused by external wind invasion, as well as headache, dizziness, red and painful eyes, tinnitus, and stiff painful neck.

2. Fengfu (GV16)

Fengfu is located 1 cun directly above the middle of the posterior hairline and belongs to the Governor Vessel (Du Meridian). It functions to dispel wind and open the orifices. Stimulating this acupoint can help alleviate symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and neck stiffness, and may also assist in treating discomfort caused by common colds or stroke.

3. Yammen (GV15)

Yammen is located at the upper border of the spinous process of the second cervical vertebra at the back of the neck and also belongs to the Governor Vessel. Yammen helps to open the orifices, refresh the mind, dispel wind, and stop spasms. However, it is considered a relatively dangerous acupoint, and extra caution should be taken when stimulating it.

4. Tianzhu (BL10)

Tianzhu is located 1.3 cun lateral to the posterior midline at the hollow on the lateral edge of the trapezius muscle, belonging to the Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian. Tianzhu functions to refresh the head and improve vision, strengthen tendons and bones. It is effective in treating symptoms such as headache, neck stiffness, and shoulder or back pain, and may also assist in treating nasal congestion and sore throat.

5. Yuzhen (BL9)

Yuzhen is located on the head, level with the upper margin of the external occipital protuberance, at a certain distance lateral to the posterior midline, and also belongs to the Foot-Taiyang Bladder Meridian. Yuzhen has functions of opening the orifices, improving vision, dispelling wind, and activating circulation in the meridians.

It is recommended to choose a suitable pillow and sleeping posture to maintain head comfort and avoid pressure or excessive friction on the back of the head. Additionally, avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods, such as looking down at a mobile phone or computer, to reduce strain on the back of the head.

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