Guanmen Point (ST-22 / Closed Gate)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Guanmen (ST-22 / Closed Gate). Learn its benefits for stomach pain, vomiting, distension, and borborygmus, plus classic combinations for digestive disorders.
Indications
Stomach pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, borborygmus (hyperactive bowel sounds), and poor appetite (anorexia). This point belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian. It harmonizes the stomach and descends rebellious qi, regulates qi and reduces distension, strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the middle. It is a commonly used point for treating digestive system disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Guan" means pass or gateway; "Men" means door. Located in the upper abdomen, where Stomach Meridian qi passes through like a gateway, transporting the essence of water and grain – hence the name Guanmen (Closed Gate).
Precise Location
In the upper abdomen, 3 cun above the umbilicus (center of the navel) and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline. Lie supine – measure 4 horizontal finger-widths (approximately 3 cun) upward from the umbilicus along the midline, then 3 horizontal finger-widths (approximately 2 cun) laterally.
Location Method
Lie supine. Measure 3 cun upward from the umbilicus (Shenque, RN-8) and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline – the point is where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb or the palm root. ② Scraping therapy: Scrape from the middle outward to both sides. Press and knead Guanmen with the thumb or palm root about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat stomach pain and gastric distension. Therapeutic actions: Harmonizes the stomach and descends rebellious qi, regulates qi and reduces distension, strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the middle.
Compatibility
Borborygmus and diarrhea: Combine with Shuifen (RN-9).
