What are the legitimate acupoints on the soles of the feet?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the sole of the foot contains several standard acupoints, including Yongquan (KI1), Taixi (KI3), Taichong (LR3), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Zhaohai (KI6). When performing foot massage, ensure you understand the correct techniques and appropriate pressure, and avoid massaging any areas with wounds or infections. Patients with hemorrhagic conditions such as cerebral hemorrhage or internal bleeding, as well as pregnant women and other special populations, should avoid foot massage.

　　Under normal circumstances, the main acupoints on the sole include Yongquan (KI1), Taixi (KI3), Taichong (LR3), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Zhaohai (KI6), and others. A detailed explanation is as follows:

　　1. Yongquan (KI1)

　　Yongquan is located in the depression of the forefoot, at the intersection point one-third along the line connecting the midpoint of the space between the second and third toes to the heel. Massaging this point can enhance immunity, strengthen physical condition, improve sleep quality, and relieve symptoms such as dizziness, insomnia, and constipation. As the starting point of the kidney meridian, Yongquan is commonly used in emergency treatments for resuscitation and to promote alertness and consciousness.

　　2. Taixi (KI3)

　　Taixi is located on the medial side of the foot, in the depression behind the medial malleolus between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. Press and knead this point with the fleshy part of the thumb for 3–5 minutes each time, multiple times daily, to relieve fatigue, promote blood circulation, regulate the endocrine system, and improve menstrual discomfort. Taixi is an important acupoint of the kidney meridian and is commonly used to treat conditions such as low back pain and impotence.

　　3. Taichong (LR3)

　　Taichong is located at the central point of the sole. Massaging this point can relieve fatigue, improve sleep, and enhance immunity.

　　4. Sanyinjiao (SP6)

　　Sanyinjiao is located in the depression on the sole, approximately four finger-widths away from the heel. Massaging this point can regulate the endocrine system, relieve menstrual discomfort, and improve reproductive function. Sanyinjiao is primarily used to regulate gynecological conditions such as menstrual irregularities and infertility.

　　5. Zhaohai (KI6)

　　Zhaohai is located on the medial side of the foot, in the depression just below the tip of the medial malleolus. Massaging this point can help relieve fatigue and discomfort associated with the feet. During massage, gently press and knead the point with the fleshy part of the thumb for about one minute.

　　When performing foot massage, ensure you understand the correct techniques and pressure intensity, and avoid massaging over wounds or infected areas. Patients with hemorrhagic diseases such as cerebral hemorrhage or internal bleeding, as well as special populations such as pregnant women, should avoid foot massage.

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