Governing Vessel
View all acupuncture points on this meridian and explore the channel pathway.
View meridian
DU-3
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Back — Lower (Lumbar)
Location
On the lower back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 4th lumber vertebra (L4).
Main Actions
- Strengthens the lower back and legs
- Tonifies Yang
Commentary
Yaoyangguan DU-3 is widely applied to tonify Kidney Yang so as to treat lower back pain and stiffness. This is especially the case if this pain spreads to the legs.
In fact, it is one of the main local points on the back which treats the lower limb disorders.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (The Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Lists DU-3 for treatment of inability to flex or extend the knee, pain in the outer aspect of the knee, numbness, and inability to walk.
Tongren Shuxue Zhenjiu Tujing (Illustrated Classic of Acupuncture Points on the Bronze Figure): Indicates this point for disorders of the lower back and legs, as well as menstrual irregularities and genital disorders.
Zhenjiu Dacheng (Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): References Yaoyangguan as a key point for strengthening Kidney Yang and treating taxation injury affecting the lumbar region.
How to Locate
Locate the Tufffier's line, which connects the two most superior points on the iliac crest. It intersects with the 4th lumber vertebra. Locate Yaoyangguan DU-3 below the spinous process of the 4th lumber vertebra (L4) on the midline.
Caution
The spinal canal lies approximately 1.25 to 1.75 cun deep to the skin surface at this level, varying according to body build. Perpendicular needling should not exceed 1 cun depth to avoid risk of puncturing the dural sac or spinal canal. Use strict perpendicular or slightly inferior oblique angle insertion. During pregnancy, use gentle stimulation only as the point affects the lower jiao and reproductive organs.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
0.5–1 cun strictly vertically to the skin or obliquely in an inferior direction.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness at the lumbar region, often radiating downward to the buttocks or sacrum. Some patients may feel warmth spreading through the lower back. The deqi sensation typically involves a deep aching quality that may travel along the spine or into the hips.
Moxibustion
Particularly Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
Related Resources
Browse All Points
Explore the complete collection of acupuncture points across all meridians.
View all meridians