Which body part to press for dampness syndrome

Aug 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, dampness syndrome can generally be managed by pressing and massaging acupoints such as Yinlingquan (SP9), Zusanli (ST36), Zhongwan (CV12), Yongquan (KI1), and Fenglong (ST40). Yinlingquan 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. Massaging this area can help strengthen the spleen, resolve dampness, and promote the metabolism of bodily fluids, thereby providing some relief from symptoms such as abdominal distension and edema caused by excessive dampness. Each session may involve massaging for 3–5 minutes.

Generally speaking, common acupoints for dampness removal include Yinlingquan (SP9), Zusanli (ST36), Zhongwan (CV12), Yongquan (KI1), and Fenglong (ST40). Detailed descriptions are as follows:

1. Yinlingquan (SP9): 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. Massaging this point helps strengthen the spleen and resolve dampness, promoting the metabolism of dampness and water, and can relieve symptoms such as abdominal distension and edema caused by excessive dampness. Each session can last 3–5 minutes.

2. Zusanli (ST36): Located on the lateral side of the lower leg, three cun below the犊鼻 (Dubí, ST35), and one transverse finger breadth from the lateral border of the anterior tibial crest. This is an important acupoint for health preservation. Massaging this point can enhance the function of the spleen and stomach, aid in transforming and transporting dampness, and improve symptoms such as poor appetite and fatigue caused by excessive dampness. It is suitable for daily wellness massage.

3. Zhongwan (CV12): Located on the upper abdomen, four cun above the umbilicus along the anterior midline. Massaging Zhongwan harmonizes the stomach and strengthens the spleen, promotes digestion, and alleviates discomfort such as epigastric distension and nausea caused by dampness obstruction. Apply pressure until a mild soreness is felt.

4. Yongquan (KI1): Located on the sole of the foot, in the deepest depression when the foot is flexed and the toes are curled. This point connects with the kidney meridian. Massaging Yongquan warms and reinforces kidney yang, helping to expel cold-dampness from the body. It is effective in alleviating symptoms such as heavy limbs and cold intolerance associated with excessive dampness. It is recommended to massage before bedtime.

5. Fenglong (ST40): Located on the lateral side of the lower leg, eight cun above the tip of the lateral malleolus, on the outer edge of the tibialis anterior muscle. As a key acupoint for resolving phlegm and eliminating dampness, massaging Fenglong helps dissipate internal phlegm-dampness and alleviate symptoms such as body heaviness and excessive phlegm caused by excessive dampness. A distinct soreness should be felt during the massage.

When massaging these points, apply moderate pressure to avoid injury. A fixed time each day can be set aside for the massage, with each point massaged for several minutes per session.

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Is taking Lianqiao Baidu Pills appropriate for dampness syndrome?

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What is the most effective medication for dampness syndrome?

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