Are the Yinlingquan and Taibai acupoints symmetrical?

Jun 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the Yinlingquan (SP9) and Taibai (SP3) acupoints are not symmetrical. The Yinlingquan acupoint is located on the medial side of the lower leg, in the depression between the lower border of the medial tibial condyle and the medial border of the tibia. The Taibai acupoint is located on the medial aspect of the foot, in the depression posterior and inferior to the head of the first metatarsal bone. These two acupoints are not symmetrical. Although Yinlingquan and Taibai differ in location, both belong to the Spleen Meridian.

Generally speaking, the Yinlingquan (Yinling Spring) point and the Taibai (Great White) point are not symmetrical. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Yinlingquan belongs to the Spleen Meridian of Foot-Taiyin, located on the medial side of the lower leg, in the depression between the inferior border of the medial tibial condyle and the medial border of the tibia. The Taibai point also belongs to the Spleen Meridian of Foot-Taiyin, located on the medial border of the foot, in the depression posterior and inferior to the head of the first metatarsal bone. These two acupuncture points are not symmetrical. Although Yinlingquan and Taibai differ in location, both belong to the Spleen Meridian. Yinlingquan mainly functions to strengthen the spleen and resolve dampness, and to promote joint mobility, commonly used in treating abdominal distension, diarrhea, edema, and knee joint pain. Taibai primarily functions to strengthen the spleen and harmonize the stomach, invigorate qi and resolve dampness, commonly used in treating stomachache, abdominal distension, indigestion, and diarrhea related to spleen and stomach disorders. In clinical practice, these two points are often used together to enhance therapeutic effectiveness.

It is recommended to observe the characteristics of acupoint distribution through meridian pathway diagrams, and clinical point selection should strictly follow positioning standards. If acupuncture treatment is required, it is recommended to proceed under the guidance of a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.

Related Articles

View All

Where is the best place to apply moxibustion for knee joint effusion?

In general, for knee joint effusion, moxibustion at the Blood Sea point (Xuehai, SP10), Liangqiu point (ST34), Eye of the Knee point (EX-LE5), Zusanli point (ST36), and Yinlingquan point (SP9) is considered effective. It is also advisable to maintain a positive and optimistic mindset, and to eat more foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, such as lean meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, and fruits, to enhance immune function and maintain overall health.

View Full Answer

Does moxibustion at the Yinylingquan (SP9) acupoint cause flatulence?

In general, it is normal to pass gas after moxibustion at the Yiny陵泉 (Yinlingquan) acupoint. Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of a physician. Although passing gas after moxibustion is considered normal, if it is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, or excessively frequent gas expulsion with a foul odor, it may indicate that the spleen and stomach functions have not fully adapted, or there may be other underlying pathological factors. In such cases, moxibustion should be暂停 (discontinued) and the body's condition should be closely observed.

View Full Answer

Can pressing the Yīnlíngquán point (SP9) cure diseases?

Pressing the Yīnlíngquán point (SP9) can indeed assist in treating certain diseases to some extent, but its specific effectiveness varies from person to person and cannot replace professional medical treatments. However, due to individual differences in constitution, severity of illness, causes, and other factors, the actual effects of pressing the Yīnlíngquán point may vary. Therefore, this method should only be considered as an auxiliary approach for regulation and cannot substitute professional medical diagnosis and treatment.

View Full Answer

Can the Yinlingquan and Weizhong acupoints remove cold and dampness?

Under normal circumstances, the Yinlingquan (SP9) and Weizhong (BL40) acupoints can help eliminate cold-dampness. However, stimulation of these acupoints should be performed under the guidance of a physician. It is important to adjust the technique according to individual constitution and the severity of cold-dampness. During massage, pressing or kneading methods may be used, with sufficient pressure to produce a sensation of soreness and distension in the local area. Moxibustion, particularly the mild-warming moxibustion method, can enhance the effect of dispelling cold through warmth. Cold exposure should be avoided during treatment.

View Full Answer

Is the Yanglingquan point the same as the Yinlingquan point?

Under normal circumstances, the Yanglingquan point is not the same as the Yinlingquan point; they are two distinct acupoints. When massaging or needling these points, proper pressure should be applied without excessive force to avoid local injury; the procedure should not be performed on areas with skin damage, ulcers, scars, or tumors; acupuncture should be administered by a qualified practitioner and should not be performed by oneself casually.

View Full Answer

Can the Yinlingquan acupoint treat foot edema?

The Yinlingquan acupoint can assist in improving foot edema caused by spleen deficiency with dampness retention, as this point helps to strengthen the spleen and resolve dampness, promoting water metabolism. However, for edema resulting from heart or kidney diseases causing circulatory or excretory dysfunction, or from trauma leading to tissue damage, where the etiology is more complex, stimulating this acupoint may not be effective. Therefore, treatment should first identify the underlying cause of the edema, rather than proceeding blindly. Whether the Yinlingquan acupoint can treat foot edema depends on the specific cause of the edema.

View Full Answer

Is it okay to press the Yinlingquan point during menstruation?

"Coming of age" usually refers to the menstrual period. Generally, it is acceptable to press the Yinlingquan point during menstruation, but massage should be performed according to medical advice. Although massaging the Yinlingquan point may offer certain benefits during a woman's menstrual period, it should be done according to individual physical conditions and specific circumstances. If discomfort occurs or symptoms worsen during the massage, the procedure should be stopped immediately and medical advice sought.

View Full Answer

Can I press the Yinlingquan point myself?

In general, you can press the Yinlingquan point yourself, but it is important to locate the correct position and perform the massage under the guidance of a physician. However, due to individual differences in physical condition and health status, improper massage may worsen symptoms or cause adverse reactions. Therefore, before performing self-massage, it is recommended to consult a qualified healthcare professional first to determine whether massage is suitable for your specific condition and to learn the correct techniques and precautions for massage.

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.