Liver Meridian
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LR-9
Needle Depth
0.8–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Thigh — Medial
Location
4 cun above the medial epicondyle of the femur, between vastus medialis and sartorius muscle.
Main Actions
- Regulates menstruation
- Regulates Qi in Lower Burner
Commentary
Yinbao LIV-9 can be used to treat urinary difficulty derives from Bladder stones or Kidney stones.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (針灸甲乙經 - Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): This is the earliest classical text documenting Yinbao LR-9, establishing its location and primary indications for lower abdominal pain, urinary difficulties, and menstrual disorders.
Main indications from classical sources: "主腰尻引小腹痛，小便难，遗溺，妇人月水不调" (Treats lumbosacral pain radiating to the lower abdomen, difficulty urinating, urinary incontinence, and irregular menstruation in women).
How to Locate
Locate LIV-9 on the border between the more medial, narrow sartorius muscle and the anteromedial vastus medialis muscle.
Caution
Located near the femoral artery and vein. While not classified as a dangerous point, practitioners should palpate carefully and avoid the vascular bundle. Use caution during pregnancy due to the point's strong effect on the uterus and lower Jiao. Avoid aggressive stimulation in patients with bleeding disorders.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Deep
Standard Depth
0.8–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 1-2 cun
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness spreading along the medial thigh. Deqi may radiate toward the knee or groin area. The sensation often has a deep, aching quality characteristic of points located between muscles.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
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