Stomach Meridian
View all acupuncture points on this meridian and explore the channel pathway.
View meridian
ST-32
Needle Depth
1.0–2.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Thigh — Anterior
Location
6 cun superior to the upper-lateral border of the patella, on the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and upper lateral border of the patella.
Main Actions
- Removes Obstructions from the Channel
- Expels Wind and Dampness
Indications
Commentary
Like its neighboring point Biguan ST-31, Futu ST-32 is also indicated for Painful Obstruction Syndrome, Atrophy Syndrome or sequelae of Wind-stroke, particularly of the legs. However, its effectiveness is less stronger.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (灵枢·经脉): The point name "Futu" (伏兔) first appears in the Ling Shu, Chapter on Channels, describing the pathway of the Stomach channel descending through the thigh: "...descending to Biguan, reaching Futu, descending to the knee..." (以下髀关，抵伏兔，下膝髌中).
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (针灸甲乙经): Records Futu located on the anterior-lateral thigh, 6 cun above the lateral border of the patella, on the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spine.
Zhen Jiu Da Cheng (针灸大成): States for locating the point: "6 cun above the knee where the muscle rises, kneel and sit to locate it, pressing with three fingers of each hand on both sides, above there is muscle that rises like a crouching rabbit" (膝上六寸起肉之处，正跪，坐而取之).
How to Locate
Identify the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the upper lateral patellar border. Draw an imaginary line between these two points and Futu ST-32 is located 6 cun above upper lateral border of the patella on the line.
Caution
Ensure proper needle depth when treating thin patients to avoid reaching the periosteum of the femur. When needling in a kneeling position (traditional method for enhanced effect), ensure patient stability to prevent injury from sudden movement. The point lies over the rectus femoris muscle belly, so avoid needling during active muscle contraction.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Deep
Standard Depth
1.0–2.0 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5–2 cun
Expected Deqi Sensation
Distention and soreness at the point, often radiating downward toward the knee. A heavy, aching sensation spreading through the anterior thigh is commonly reported. In some cases, the sensation may extend to the hip region.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
Related Resources
Browse All Points
Explore the complete collection of acupuncture points across all meridians.
View all meridians