Pigen Point (EX-B4 / Root of Mass)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Pigen (EX-B4 / Root of Mass). Learn its benefits for abdominal masses, hepatosplenomegaly, uterine fibroids, and lumbar pain – the extraordinary point for dispersing masses – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and relieves pain, softens and disperses hard masses, activates blood and unblocks the collaterals. Treats abdominal masses (intra-abdominal tumors, hepatosplenomegaly, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts), lumbar pain, abdominal pain, abdominal masses and accumulations, and hepatosplenomegaly.
Precise Location
In the lumbar region, 3.5 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. First locate the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra (approximately at the level of the free end of the 12th rib), then measure 3.5 cun (approximately 5 finger-widths) laterally – that is the point. One point on each side.
Massage Method
Press and knead with the thumb pad or palm root 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, softens and disperses hard masses, and activates blood and unblocks the collaterals.
Compatibility
Abdominal masses: Combine with Zhangmen (LR-13). Abdominal masses and accumulations: Combine with Qimen (LR-14), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Guilai (ST-29). Lumbar pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Weizhong (BL-40). Abdominal pain: Combine with Zhongwan (RN-12), Tianshu (ST-25), and Zusanli (ST-36). Hepatosplenomegaly: Combine with Ganshu (BL-18), Pishu (BL-20), and Zhangmen (LR-13). Uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts: Combine with Zigong (EX-CA1), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Guanyuan (RN-4).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located 3.5 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra. It strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and relieves pain, softens and disperses hard masses, and activates blood and unblocks the collaterals. It is a commonly used key point for treating abdominal masses and lumbar pain. First documented in the Yijing Xiaoxue (Elementary Medicine Classic). "Pi" refers to a mass or abdominal lump; "Gen" means root or source. This point treats abdominal masses (intra-abdominal tumors, hepatosplenomegaly, etc.), targeting the root cause – hence the name Pigen (Root of Mass). Pigen is an experienced effective point for treating abdominal masses, with good therapeutic effects on intra-abdominal tumors, hepatosplenomegaly, uterine fibroids, and other abdominal mass disorders. It is often combined with Zhangmen (LR-13), Qimen (LR-14), and Sanyinjiao (SP-6).
Contraindications
Located in the lumbar region – 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.
