Qizhongsibian EX-CA location
EX-CA5

Qizhongsibian EX-CA

Four Sides of the Umbilicus · 脐中四边 · Qí Zhōng Sì Biān
Acupuncture

Safety Warnings

  • Dangerous point - requires extra caution
  • Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
  • Contraindicated during pregnancy

Needle Depth

0.5-1.0 cun

Needle Angle

90° (Perpendicular)

Body Area

Abdomen — Middle

Location

This is a group of 4 points, 1 cun lateral, superior and inferior to the center of the umbilicus. The superior point corresponds to Shuifen REN-9, while the inferior one corresponds to Yinjiao REN-7.

Main Actions

  • Benefits the Lower Burner

Commentary

This is a group of 4 points to be used at the same time. 

Their main function is to benefits the Lower Burner by removing the Stagnation there. 

Classical Sources

As an extra point developed through empirical clinical observation, Qizhongsibian does not appear in the classical canon texts such as the Huangdi Neijing or Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing. It is documented in later acupuncture compilations as part of the extra points of the chest and abdomen region, recognized for its effectiveness in treating gastrointestinal disorders and childhood convulsions.

How to Locate

This is a group of 4 points, 1 cun lateral, superior and inferior to the center of the umbilicus.

Caution

This is a group of four points surrounding the umbilicus at a vulnerable abdominal location. Exercise caution due to proximity to the peritoneum. Avoid deep needling and use careful perpendicular insertion only. Contraindicated during pregnancy. Patients with abdominal distention, ascites, or enlarged organs require extra care. The superior point corresponds to Shuifen REN-9 and the inferior point corresponds to Yinjiao REN-7, so knowledge of those points' locations aids accurate placement.

Needle Angle

90° (Perpendicular)

Depth Category

Medium

Standard Depth

0.5-1.0 cun

Needling Directions

Vertically 0.5–1 cun. Caution: Peritoneum, pregnancy.

Expected Deqi Sensation

Local distention and heaviness around the umbilicus, with possible sensation radiating toward the center of the abdomen. Deqi may be experienced as a mild aching or warm sensation spreading across the periumbilical region.

Moxibustion

Recommended

Duration: 10-15 minutes

Cupping

Questionable

Bloodletting

N/A

Gua Sha

Questionable

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