Acupuncture
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EX-LE-11
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Toes
Location
On the plantar aspect of the 2nd toe, at the midpoint of the transverse crease of the distal interphalangeal joint.
Main Actions
- Descends rebellious Qi and harmonizes the Stomach (降逆和胃)
- Regulates menstruation and harmonizes Blood (调经和血)
- Promotes labor and expels retained placenta
- Regulates Liver Qi and stops pain
- Moves Blood stasis in the lower abdomen
Indications
Commentary
Duyin EX-LE-11 is not a major point. Its main function is to remove Qi Stagnation.
Classical Sources
《太平圣惠方》(Tai Ping Sheng Hui Fang): First classical text to record this point's location, though without a name.
《针灸大成》(Zhen Jiu Da Cheng): This Ming Dynasty text formally named the point '独阴' (Duyin) and established its indications including chest and hypochondriac pain, vomiting, difficult labor, retention of afterbirth, and hernia.
Name etymology: '独' (dú) means 'solitary' or 'alone'; '阴' (yīn) refers to 'yin' or the underside. The name indicates that this is the only acupuncture point located on the plantar (yin) surface of the toes, hence 'Solitary Yin.'
How to Locate
First locate the plantar aspect of the 2nd toe. There, locate Duyin Ex-LE-11 at the midpoint of the transverse crease of the distal interphalangeal joint.
Caution
This point is located on the sensitive plantar surface of the toe, so needling can be quite painful. Very shallow insertion is required (0.1-0.2 cun). While not absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy, use with caution during pregnancy as this point has traditional indications for promoting labor and expelling dead fetus. Moxibustion is often preferred over needling for this point.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needling Directions
0.2–0.3 cun vertically or transversely or prick to bleed or moxibustion.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distending sensation or soreness at the toe. Due to the sensitive nature of the plantar surface, needling may produce a sharp, stinging quality. Deqi may radiate along the toe.
Moxibustion
Particularly Recommended
Duration: 5–15 minutes
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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