Stomach Meridian
View all acupuncture points on this meridian and explore the channel pathway.
View meridian
ST-33
Needle Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Thigh — Anterior
Location
3 cun above the upper-lateral border of the patella, on a line between the lateral patellar border and the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS).
Main Actions
- Removes Obstructions from the Channel
- Expels Wind-Damp
Indications
Oedema
Weak legs
Cold legs
Knee pain
Stiff legs
Weak knees
Thigh pain
Leg atrophy
Leg numbness
Shan disorder
Abdominal pain
Abdominal distension
Commentary
Similar to its neighboring points of Biguan ST-31 and Futu ST-32, Yinshi ST-33 is also indicated for Painful Obstruction Syndrome, Atrophy Syndrome or sequelae of Wind-stroke, particularly of the legs.
However, it is not a major point and is less used.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Dacheng (针灸大成): Lists Yinshi with the alternative name "Yinding" (阴鼎), indicating its historical recognition in classical literature.
Explanation of the Name: "Yin" (阴) refers to pathogenic cold or yin factors, while "Shi" (市) means market or gathering place. The name reflects the point's classical function of dispersing accumulated cold from the knee region—like a marketplace where pathogenic yin factors gather and can be dispersed.
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 Yinshi ST-33 is located 3 cun above upper-lateral border of the patella on the line.
Caution
This point is located over the quadriceps muscle group (vastus lateralis and rectus femoris). Standard precautions apply—ensure proper needle insertion technique and appropriate depth based on patient body type. Avoid needling into fascial planes that may cause bruising in patients on anticoagulation therapy.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Deep
Standard Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5–1.5 cun
Expected Deqi Sensation
Deqi typically manifests as a deep aching or distending sensation at the point location. Needle sensation may radiate distally toward the knee or proximally along the anterior thigh following the Stomach channel pathway. Some patients experience a heavy, numb quality characteristic of local muscle stimulation.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 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