Acupuncture
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EX-LE-8
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique), 10-15° (Transverse)
Body Area
Ankle
Location
On the highest point of the medial malleolus.
Main Actions
- Benefits the ankle
Indications
Commentary
Nehuaijian EX-LE-8 is mainly used to reduce pain in the medial ankle region.
Classical Sources
《備急千金要方》(Bei Ji Qian Jin Yao Fang - Essential Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold): This is the original source text where the point first appears, documenting its location at the tip of the medial malleolus and its use with moxibustion for various conditions.
《類經圖翼》(Lei Jing Tu Yi - Illustrated Supplement to the Classified Classic): Records the alternative name 'Huaijian' (踝尖) and confirms its traditional indications including muscle cramping and spasms.
《備急灸法》(Bei Ji Jiu Fa - Emergency Moxibustion Methods): Emphasizes the importance of moxibustion therapy at this point, particularly for acute conditions like cholera with cramping (Huo Luan Zhuan Jin).
How to Locate
Nehuaijian EX-LE-8 is located on the highest point of the medial malleolus. On the opposite side, Waihuaijian EX-LE-9 is on the highest point of the lateral malleolus.
Caution
This point is located directly over the bony prominence of the medial malleolus with minimal subcutaneous tissue, making needle insertion technically challenging and potentially uncomfortable. Moxibustion is the traditionally preferred and safer method of stimulation at this location. Avoid deep needling due to proximity to periosteum. Not suitable for cupping or gua sha due to bony anatomy. Use caution in patients with peripheral neuropathy or compromised circulation in the lower limbs.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique) / 10-15° (Transverse)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
0.1 cun transversely or prick to bleed.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local aching and distending sensation at the ankle tip. Due to the thin subcutaneous tissue over the bony prominence, needling sensation is typically localized rather than radiating. Moxibustion produces a warming sensation that may extend along the medial aspect of the ankle.
Moxibustion
Particularly Recommended
Duration: 5-10 minutes (or 3-5 moxa cones)
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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