Spleen Channel

Shangqiu SP-5

Chinese: 商丘

Pinyin: Shāng Qiū

Location

In the depression distal and inferior to the medial malleolus, midway between the navicular bone tubercle and the tip of the medial malleolus. 

How to locate

Shangqiu SP-5 is located in a depression anterior and inferior to the medial malleolus, at the junction of a vertical line drawn along the anterior border and a horizontal line drawn along the inferior border of the medial malleolus.

Main actions

  1. Removes Obstructions from the Channel
  2. Tonifies the Spleen
  3. Benefits the sinews and bones
  4. Calms the Mind

Indications

Fatigue Anxiety Sadness Lethargy Lassitude Diarrhoea Somnolence Borborygmi Sinew pain Ankle pain Heavy body Depression Nightmares Melancholy Constipation Painful joint Inner thigh pain Sinew contracture Abdominal distension Inappropriate laughter Undigested food in the stools

Needling

0.3–0.6 cun vertically, obliquely or transversely deep to the tendons towards Neiting ST-41.

Commentary for Shangqiu SP-5

Shangqiu SP-5 is an important point with various functions. 

Most importantly, it treats Painful Obstruction Syndrome due to Dampness, especially in ankles and knees. As the River-Jing point of the Channel, it is the place where Qi is diverted to bones, sinews and joints. Thus SP-5 benefits the sinews and joints greatly. Typical manifestations include pain or contraction of the ankle, sinew and inner thigh. 

It also tonifies the Spleen, which is the fundamental Organ for supplying Food Essence, Qi and Blood to the whole body. Patients with Spleen Deficient tend to be tired and desire to lie down. 

Furthermore, the point regulates the Intestines, characterized by abdominal distension, borborygmi, diarrhoea, undigested food in stools and constipation.

Finally, Shangqiu SP-5 calms the Mind and opens the Mind's orifices. Typical symptoms are depression, agitation, excessive pensiveness, inappropriate laughter, nightmares and melancholy.