Governing Vessel

Qiangjian DU-18

Chinese: 强间

Pinyin: Qiáng Jiān

Location

On the posterior midline, 1.5 cun above Naohu DU-17, midway between Fengfu DU-16 and Baihui DU-20. 

How to locate

First locate Naohu DU-17 in a depression directly superior to the external occipital protuberance, which forms a humpshaped projection on the posterior surface of the occipital bone. 

From there, palpate 1.5 cun in a superior direction and  locate Qiangjian DU-18 on the posterior midline. 

On the other hand, Baihui DU-20 is located 3 cun in a superior direction, on the vertex.

Main actions

  1. Expels Wind
  2. Calms the Mind

Indications

Nausea Spasms Anxiety Epilepsy Insomnia Headaches Dizziness Stiff neck Depression Vomiting of watery fluids

Needling

0.5–1 cun transversely

Commentary for Qiangjian DU-18

Qiangjian DU-18 is a less important point and it is often used as an assistant role to other points. 

Together with neighboring points of the Governing Vessels on the head, such as Naohu DU-17 and Houding DU-19, it is able to expels Interior Wind and calm the Mind. It can also ease severe stabbing pain in the head region.