Acupuncture
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EX-LE-12
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 tips of the 10 toes.
Main Actions
- Resuscitates consciousness and opens the orifices (醒脑开窍)
- Opens channels and relieves pain (通经止痛)
- Clears heat and eliminates wind
- Promotes circulation in the extremities
- Reduces swelling and stops pain in the feet
- Calms the spirit in emergency situations
- Invigorates blood circulation
Indications
Commentary
Qiduan EX-LE-12 is not a major Extra points.
Classical Sources
Qiduan (气端) is documented as an important emergency point in classical literature. The point name translates to "Qi End" or "Tip of Qi," referring to its location at the terminal extremities where Qi reaches its furthest extent. Classical texts describe the ten toe tips as powerful points for reviving consciousness and treating acute conditions.
Research published in Zhongguo Zhen Jiu (Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion) notes that "Qiduan (EX-LE 12) is also named as foot-Shixuan" and can be "combined with Qiduan (EX-LE 12) in the emergent treatment of tense syndrome and syncope." The point shares functional similarities with the twelve jing-well points in its ability to clear heat and restore consciousness.
How to Locate
This is a group of 10 points and all of them are located at the tips of the 10 toes, 0.1 cun from the free margin of the nail. The 10 points of Shixuan EX-UE-1 are located in a comparable places on the tips of 10 fingers.
Caution
This point group consists of 10 individual points located at each toe tip. The area is highly sensitive with concentrated nerve endings, making needling notably painful. Shallow insertion only (0.1-0.2 cun) is essential due to the thin tissue depth. Bloodletting with a three-edged needle or lancet is the most common technique. Ensure sterile technique to prevent infection in this distal location. Avoid in patients with peripheral vascular disease, diabetes with neuropathy, or compromised circulation to the feet. Use with caution during pregnancy due to strong Qi-moving properties.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needling Directions
Prick to bleed.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Sharp, pricking sensation at the needle site with possible radiating sensation proximally along the toe. Due to the high concentration of nerve endings at the toe tips, this point typically produces immediate and strong sensation. When using bloodletting technique, the patient may experience a momentary sharp pain followed by relief.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Particularly Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
Related Resources
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