Acupuncture
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EX-UE-6
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.1 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Fingers
Location
On the little finger dorsum, in the center of the transverse creases of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP).
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
Indications
Eye disorders
Eye pain
Pterygium (eye membrane growth)
Red and swollen eyes
Photophobia (light sensitivity)
Excessive tearing
Deafness
Tinnitus
Sore throat
Pharyngitis
Finger joint pain
Little finger pain
Hand joint stiffness
Commentary
Xiaogukong EX-UE-6 is not a major point. Its main point is to clear Heat.
Classical Sources
《扁鹊神应针灸玉龙经》(Biǎn Què Shén Yìng Zhēn Jiǔ Yù Lóng Jīng - Bian Que's Divine Response Jade Dragon Classic of Acupuncture): First recorded reference to this point, documenting its location and primary indications for eye and ear disorders.
《玉龙歌》(Yù Lóng Gē - Jade Dragon Song): "Wind-induced eye disorders with weeping and inflammation are most pitiful; profuse tears flow without relief. The Greater and Lesser Bone Hollow are both marvelous points; adding moxibustion will quickly heal the illness."
《针灸大成》(Zhēn Jiǔ Dà Chéng - Great Compendium of Acupuncture): Documents this point's use in combinations for treating various eye conditions including photophobia and eye redness.
How to Locate
Slightly bend the PIP of the little finger. The point is located at the vertex of the flexed joint. Zhongkui EX-UE-4 is on the center PIP of the middle finger dorsum. Dagukong EX-UE-5 is on the center PIP of the thumb dorsum. Sifeng EX-UE-10 is a group of four points located on the palmar aspect of the PIP from the 2nd to the 5th finger.
Caution
This is an extra point located on the small finger joint with very limited tissue depth. Only shallow needling (approximately 0.1 cun) is appropriate. Some classical sources indicate pricking to bleed rather than standard needle retention. The small joint area has limited space, so careful technique is required. Moxibustion is the traditionally preferred treatment method for this point, especially for chronic eye conditions. Avoid in patients with finger joint inflammation or infection.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1 cun
Needling Directions
Prick to bleed. No needling is allowed.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Localized distension and mild soreness at the joint. Due to the very shallow needling depth, deqi sensation is typically mild. Some practitioners prefer moxibustion or bloodletting at this point rather than needle retention.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes with moxa stick, or 1–3 cones direct moxa
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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