Shangqiu SP-5 location
SP-5

Shangqiu SP-5

Shang Mound · 商丘 · Shāng Qiū
Spleen Meridian
Metal-Jin River-Jing Point

Needle Depth

0.2–0.5 cun

Needle Angle

90° (Perpendicular), 10-15° (Transverse)

Body Area

Ankle

Location

In the depression distal and inferior to the medial malleolus, midway between the navicular bone tubercle and the tip of the medial malleolus.

Previous on channel

Gongsun SP-4

Next on channel

Sanyinjiao SP-6

Main Actions

  • Removes Obstructions from the Channel
  • Tonifies the Spleen
  • Benefits the sinews and bones
  • Calms the Mind

Commentary

Shangqiu SP-5 is an important point with various functions. 

Most importantly, it treats Painful Obstruction Syndrome due to Dampness, especially in ankles and knees. As the River-Jing point of the Channel, it is the place where Qi is diverted to bones, sinews and joints. Thus SP-5 benefits the sinews and joints greatly. Typical manifestations include pain or contraction of the ankle, sinew and inner thigh. 

It also tonifies the Spleen, which is the fundamental Organ for supplying Food Essence, Qi and Blood to the whole body. Patients with Spleen Deficient tend to be tired and desire to lie down. 

Furthermore, the point regulates the Intestines, characterized by abdominal distension, borborygmi, diarrhoea, undigested food in stools and constipation.

Finally, Shangqiu SP-5 calms the Mind and opens the Mind's orifices. Typical symptoms are depression, agitation, excessive pensiveness, inappropriate laughter, nightmares and melancholy. 

Classical Sources

Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot), Chapter 'Ben Shu': "Below the medial malleolus, in the depression."

Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): "Below the medial malleolus, slightly anterior, in the depression."

Zhen Jiu Da Cheng (Great Compendium of Acupuncture): "Zhongfeng [LR-4] is anterior, Zhaohai [KI-6] is posterior, and this point is in the middle."

How to Locate

Shangqiu SP-5 is located in a depression anterior and inferior to the medial malleolus, at the junction of a vertical line drawn along the anterior border and a horizontal line drawn along the inferior border of the medial malleolus.

Caution

Located in an area with relatively thin soft tissue over bone. Avoid excessive depth or aggressive manipulation. The great saphenous vein passes nearby; gentle technique is recommended to avoid bruising.

Needle Angle

90° (Perpendicular) / 10-15° (Transverse)

Depth Category

Shallow

Standard Depth

0.2–0.5 cun

Needling Directions

0.3–0.6 cun vertically, obliquely or transversely deep to the tendons towards Neiting ST-41.

Expected Deqi Sensation

Local distension and soreness around the medial ankle. Deqi may radiate along the medial aspect of the lower leg following the Spleen channel pathway, or locally around the ankle joint.

Moxibustion

Recommended

Duration: 5–10 minutes

Cupping

Questionable

Bloodletting

N/A

Gua Sha

Questionable

Five Element & Transporting Classification

Five Phase

Metal-Jin

Transporting Type

River-Jing Point

Mother-Child Role

Child (Reducing)

Related Resources

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