Acupuncture
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EX-B-9
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Back — Sacral
Location
2 cun superior to the tip of the coccyx.
Main Actions
- Calms the mind and spirit (An Shen)
- Stops seizures and convulsions
- Clears the brain and opens the orifices
- Resolves phlegm to calm the mind
- Regulates the intestines and promotes bowel movement
- Alleviates headache
Indications
Commentary
Yaoqi (腰奇), literally meaning "Lumbar Peculiar" or "Miraculous Lumbar Point," is one of the most important extra points for treating epilepsy and seizure disorders in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its location at the sacrum, 2 cun above the tip of the coccyx, places it near the sacral hiatus—a gateway to the spinal canal that connects to the brain via the Du Mai (Governing Vessel).
The point's primary function is to calm the spirit (安神 An Shen) and stop seizures. In TCM theory, epilepsy often results from phlegm obstructing the Heart orifices and disturbing the spirit. Yaoqi's location allows it to influence the Du Mai's pathway to the brain, making it particularly effective for clearing the mind and resolving phlegm accumulation that causes mental disturbance. It is also valuable for treating insomnia, headaches, and chronic constipation—the latter reflecting its ability to regulate Qi flow in the lower body.
Clinical research has shown that Yaoqi is frequently combined with Baihui DU-20, Fenglong ST-40, and Neiguan PC-6 in protocols for various types of epilepsy. Practitioners should exercise caution with deep needling due to proximity to the sacral hiatus, which can access the spinal canal.
Classical Sources
This is an extra point (经外奇穴 jīng wài qí xué) that developed from empirical clinical use rather than classical channel theory. While it does not appear in the earliest classics like the Huangdi Neijing, it has been documented in later acupuncture texts as an important point for treating epilepsy and mental disorders.
Modern standardization recognizes Yaoqi as EX-B-9 according to WHO nomenclature, acknowledging its established clinical significance in treating neurological and psychological conditions.
How to Locate
Locate the tip of the coccyx superior to the anus. From there, palpate 2 cun in a superior direction and locate Ex-B-9 in a depression between the sacral processes. Changqiang Du-1 is located on the midline, between the tip of the coccyx and the anus.
Caution
Deep needling is contraindicated as the needle may enter the sacral hiatus and access the sacral canal, potentially affecting the spinal cord or cauda equina. Maintain oblique upward insertion at shallow to medium depth. Avoid in patients with sacral abnormalities or after spinal surgery. Use gentle stimulation in patients prone to strong needle reactions.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
Oblique insertion directed superiorly (upward) along the sacral midline, toward the sacral hiatus. The needle should follow the curve of the sacrum.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local soreness and distension around the sacral area. Sensation may radiate upward along the spine or downward toward the coccyx. Some patients report a spreading sensation of warmth or tingling in the lower back region.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Questionable
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