Acupuncture
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EX-LE-9
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Ankle
Location
On the highest point of the lateral malleolus.
Main Actions
- Benefits the ankle
Indications
Commentary
Waihuaijian EX-LE-9 is mainly used to reduce pain in the lateral ankle region.
Classical Sources
This is an extra point (经外奇穴) that does not appear in the earliest classical texts like the Huangdi Neijing. It was documented in later acupuncture compilations as part of the extra points of the lower extremity category.
The point is traditionally used primarily for moxibustion and bloodletting rather than standard needling, with indications focusing on toothache, beriberi, and hemiplegia.
How to Locate
Waihuaijian EX-LE-9 is located on the highest point of the lateral malleolus. On the opposite side, Nehuaijian EX-LE-8 is on the highest point of the medial malleolus.
Caution
Located directly on the bony prominence of the lateral malleolus with minimal soft tissue coverage. Needling is typically superficial or involves bloodletting with a three-edged needle rather than standard insertion. Avoid aggressive manipulation on this bony surface. The periosteum is close to the surface, so gentle technique is essential to prevent discomfort.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needling Directions
0.1 cun transversely or prick to bleed.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Mild local distension or soreness at the ankle tip. Due to the bony location with minimal soft tissue, needling sensation is typically subtle. Bloodletting with a three-edged needle produces immediate local bleeding without significant deqi sensation.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
N/A
Bloodletting
Particularly Recommended
Gua Sha
N/A
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