Weiwanxiashu Point (EX-B3 / Lower Gastric Shu, also known as Yishu / Pancreas Shu)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Weiwanxiashu (EX-B3 / Lower Gastric Shu). Learn its benefits for diabetes, vomiting, and abdominal pain – the extraordinary point for regulating digestion – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and relieves pain, promotes fluid production and quenches thirst, nourishes yin and descends fire. Treats diabetes (polydipsia, polyphagia, polyuria), vomiting, abdominal pain, chest and hypochondriac pain, epigastric pain, indigestion, and diabetic complications (peripheral neuropathy, retinopathy).
Precise Location
On the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of the 8th thoracic vertebra.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. First locate the spinous process of the 8th thoracic vertebra (approximately one vertebra above the level of the inferior angle of the scapula), then measure 1.5 cun (approximately 2 finger-widths) laterally – that is the point. One point on each side.
Massage Method
Press and knead with the thumb pad for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily – a local sore-distending sensation is optimal. Mild-warm moxa may also be applied for 10–15 minutes per point. Therapeutic actions: Strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and relieves pain, promotes fluid production and quenches thirst, nourishes yin and descends fire.
Compatibility
Diabetes: Combine with Feishu (BL-13), Pishu (BL-20), Shenshu (BL-23), Zusanli (ST-36), and Taixi (KI-3). Epigastric and abdominal pain: Combine with Zhongwan (RN-12), Zusanli (ST-36), and Neiguan (PC-6). Vomiting: Combine with Neiguan (PC-6) and Zhongwan (RN-12). Chest and hypochondriac pain: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34) and Zhigou (TE-6). Indigestion: Combine with Pishu (BL-20), Weishu (BL-21), and Zusanli (ST-36).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located 1.5 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of the 8th thoracic vertebra. It strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and relieves pain, promotes fluid production and quenches thirst, and nourishes yin and descends fire. It is a commonly used key point for treating diabetes and digestive system disorders. First documented in the Zhenjiuxue (Acupuncture Studies). "Weiwan" refers to the stomach; "Xiashu" means the lower Back Shu point. Located below the Back Shu point of the stomach region, this point treats gastric disorders – hence the name Weiwanxiashu (Lower Gastric Shu). It is also known as "Yishu" (Pancreas Shu). Weiwanxiashu is an experienced effective point for treating diabetes, often combined with Feishu (BL-13), Pishu (BL-20), Shenshu (BL-23), Zusanli (ST-36), and Taixi (KI-3) to regulate zang-fu functions and improve glucose metabolism disorders. It has good therapeutic effects on diabetes and its complications.
Contraindications
Located on the back – needling depth and angle should be carefully controlled, generally 0.5–1 cun vertically, avoiding deep insertion to prevent internal organ injury. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women.
