Jimai Point (LR-12 / Urgent Pulse)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Jimai (LR-12 / Urgent Pulse). Learn its benefits for hernia, genital pain, and lower limb cold pain – the Liver meridian point – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Lower abdominal pain, hernia, genital pain, cold pain of the lower limbs, lower limb numbness, genital swelling and pain, and testicular pain.
Precise Location
In the inguinal region, level with the superior border of the pubic symphysis, 2.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Location Method
At the pulsation of the femoral artery, 2.5 cun lateral to the midline – firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press with the thumb for a moment, then suddenly release. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. ③ Scraping therapy: Scrape from the center outward. Press with the thumb for a moment then suddenly release – to treat cold pain and numbness of the lower limbs. Therapeutic actions: Soothes the liver and regulates qi, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, regulates the lower jiao, and dispels cold and activates the collaterals.
Compatibility
Hernia and lower abdominal pain: Combine with Dadun (LR-1) and Taichong (LR-3). Genital pain: Combine with Zhongji (RN-3) and Sanyinjiao (SP-6). Cold pain and numbness of the lower limbs: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36). Genital swelling and pain: Combine with Ligou (LR-5) and Zhongji (RN-3).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Jueyin Liver Meridian. It soothes the liver and regulates qi, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, regulates the lower jiao, and dispels cold and activates the collaterals. It is a commonly used key point for treating lower abdominal and reproductive system disorders. First documented in Suwen · Qifu Lun. "Ji" means urgent or tense; "Mai" means vessel or pulse. Located at the pulsation of the femoral artery, this point is where Liver Meridian qi moves urgently – hence the name Jimai (Urgent Pulse).
Contraindications
Located at the femoral artery pulsation, needling should avoid the femoral artery and not be too deep. Use with caution in pregnant women.
