Liver Meridian
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LR-6
Xi-Cleft Point
Needle Depth
0.5–0.8 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique), 10-15° (Transverse)
Body Area
Lower Leg — Medial
Location
7 cun above the tip of the medial malleolus, or 2 cun above Ligou LIV-5, on the medial aspect and posterior to the medial crest of the tibia.
Main Actions
- Removes Obstructions from the Channel
- Invigorates Liver Qi in Lower Burner
- Invigorates Blood
Indications
Commentary
Like Ligou LIV-5, LIV-6 has a close relationship with the genitourinary system and is used for clearing Damp-Heat there. The typical manifestation is Shan disorder (Hernial and Genitourinary disorder).
The use of LIV-6 is very similar to LIV-4 and LIV-5. It is mainly used in Excess patterns and acute cases to stop pain caused by obstruction of Liver Qi or Damp-Heat (eg: urinary pain such as cystitis).
Classical Sources
《针灸甲乙经》Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (A-B Classic of Acupuncture): First documented as the Xi-Cleft point of the Liver meridian, indicating its special role in treating acute conditions of the Liver channel.
《铜人腧穴针灸图经》Tongren Shuxue Zhenjiu Tujing (Bronze Man): Documented for treating hernia, abdominal pain, uterine bleeding, and prolonged lochia after childbirth.
Classical Xi-Cleft Theory: As stated in classical texts, "阴经郄穴多治血证" (Yin meridian Xi-Cleft points are often used to treat blood disorders) - this principle particularly applies to Zhongdu treating 崩漏 (uterine flooding and spotting).
How to Locate
From the tip of the medial malleolus, palpate 7 cun in a proximal direction and locate LIV-6 in a depression directly posterior to the medial crest of the tibia.
Caution
Located over the medial surface of the tibia with relatively superficial bone underneath. Care should be taken to needle at the proper angle to avoid periosteal discomfort. The great saphenous vein runs posteriorly in this area - observe the skin before needling to avoid visible veins. Use caution during pregnancy as this point strongly moves blood and regulates menstruation. For patients on anticoagulant therapy, apply adequate pressure after needle removal.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique) / 10-15° (Transverse)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–0.8 cun
Needling Directions
0.5-1 cun vertically or obliquely in a direction towards the abdomen.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local aching and distension sensation at the point. The sensation may radiate upward toward the knee along the medial aspect of the leg. Patients typically feel a dull, deep ache characteristic of Xi-Cleft points.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
Recommended
Gua Sha
Questionable
Special Point Classifications
Xi-Cleft Point
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