Directing Vessel
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REN-13
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Abdomen — Upper
Location
On the midline of the abdomen, 5 cun above the umbilicus and 3 cun below the sternocostal angle.
Main Actions
- Subdues the Rebellious Stomach Qi
Indications
Commentary
Shangwan REN-13 is mostly used in Stomach Excess patterns. In fact, it is the most used point for subduing Rebellious Stomach Qi so as to treat symptoms like strong nausea, hiccup, belching, reflux, vomiting and a feeling of fullness in the upper epigastrium.
Together with Zusanli ST-36 and Neiguan P-6, it can be used for morning sickness during pregnancy.
The epigastric area can be divided into three equal parts and each part is controlled by an Acupuncture point to treat various Stomach disorders.
The upper part, including the fundus of the Stomach and oesophagus, is controlled by Shangwan REN-13. As mentioned above, it is mostly used to subdues the Rebellious Stomach Qi.
The middle part covers the mid Stomach and is controlled by Zhongwan REN-12. It has impact on the Stomach digestion.
While the lower part, covering the lower Stomach and duodenum, is controlled by Xiawan REN-10. It works more on descending the Rebellious Stomach Qi so as to move the accumulated foods to the Small Intestine.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spirit Pivot), Chapter on Four Seasons Qi (四時氣): First mention of the point Shangwan, establishing its location and use for stomach disorders.
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture, 針灸甲乙經): "Shangwan, also called Weiguan (胃脘), is located 5 cun above the umbilicus on the anterior midline. It is the meeting point of the Ren Mai, Foot Yangming (Stomach), and Hand Taiyang (Small Intestine) channels."
Qian Jin Fang (Thousand Gold Prescriptions, 千金方): Records the alternative name "Shangguan" (上管) and describes its use for treating vomiting, hiccup, and epigastric pain.
How to Locate
On the midline of the abdomen, divide the distance between the umbilicus and the sternocostal angle into 8 cun. Shangwan REN-13 is located 5 cun above umbilicus.
Caution
In thin patients, deep needling may penetrate the peritoneal cavity and potentially injure the liver (lower edge) or stomach (pyloric region). Always assess patient body habitus before needling. Use caution during pregnancy—while not absolutely contraindicated, reduce stimulation intensity. The point lies directly over the stomach and liver; perpendicular insertion should not exceed 1.5 cun in most patients. Stop immediately if the patient reports sharp or unusual pain.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5-1 cun. Caution: be careful with Peritoneum. Take great care during pregnancy.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and fullness sensation in the epigastric region, often radiating downward toward the umbilicus or upward toward the chest. Some patients may feel a sinking or heavy sensation in the stomach area. Deqi may also produce a mild aching that spreads across the upper abdomen.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Questionable
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