Which area is best to apply moxibustion for lumbar muscle strain?

Generally speaking, there is no definitive answer to the question of "which specific site is best for moxibustion in treating lumbar muscle strain." The principle of moxibustion for lumbar muscle strain focuses on warming the meridians, unblocking collaterals, promoting blood circulation to relieve pain, and relaxing tense muscles. Areas that tend to be more effective include acupoints related to the lower back and the specific sites of muscular strain. Commonly used points include Shenshu (BL23), Mingmen (GV4), Yaoyangguan (GV3), Weizhong (BL40), and Ashi points. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Shenshu (BL23): Located below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra, 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline. This point nourishes the kidneys and strengthens the lower back and knees. It is suitable for soreness, pain, and weakness in the lower back caused by lumbar muscle strain, especially effective for pain worsened by fatigue. It helps improve lumbar function at its root.

2. Mingmen (GV4): Located in the depression below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra along the posterior midline. It has the effects of warming the kidney, reinforcing yang, dispelling cold, and relieving pain. It can alleviate cold-type pain and stiffness in the lower back due to muscle strain, promote local blood and qi circulation, and help relax tight muscle tissues.

3. Yaoyangguan (GV3): Located in the depression below the spinous process of the fourth lumbar vertebra along the posterior midline. As a key point for the flow of yang energy in the lower back, it warms and unblocks the meridians and relaxes tendons and muscles. It significantly relieves soreness and restricted movement caused by lumbar muscle strain, particularly suitable for strain resulting from prolonged sitting or standing.

4. Weizhong (BL40): Located at the midpoint of the popliteal crease in the posterior knee region. This point belongs to the Bladder Meridian of Foot-Taiyang. It helps unblock meridians in the lower back and relieve muscle spasms. It is suitable for radiating pain associated with lumbar muscle strain and can assist in improving overall discomfort in the lower back.

5. Ashi Point: Refers to the tender spot at the site of lumbar strain, which has no fixed location. Moxibustion applied directly to painful areas acts locally to quickly unblock stagnant qi and blood, relieve muscle tension, and reduce pain. It is the most direct and effective site for treating lumbar muscle strain and can be used in combination with other acupoints to enhance therapeutic effects.

When performing moxibustion, contraindications and precautions must also be observed. Control the temperature to avoid burns, and choose appropriate techniques such as温和 moxibustion (mild-warming moxibustion) or ginger-separated moxibustion. After moxibustion, keep the lower back warm to prevent exposure to cold. Strictly follow correct procedures to ensure both safety and effectiveness of the treatment.