Shuifen Point (RN-9 / Water Divide, also known as Fenshui, Zhongshou)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Shuifen (RN-9 / Water Divide). Learn its benefits for edema, diarrhea, abdominal distension, and ascites – the key point for regulating water passages – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Edema, diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, difficult urination, borborygmus, and ascites.
Precise Location
In the upper abdomen, 1 cun above the umbilicus, on the anterior midline – 1 finger-width above the center of the umbilicus.
Location Method
Lie supine. On the anterior midline, measure 1 finger-width (approximately 1 cun) upward from the center of the umbilicus – that is the point.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Shuifen with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat abdominal distension and abdominal pain. Therapeutic actions: Regulates the water passages, promotes diuresis and reduces edema, strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, and regulates qi and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Ascites: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Diji (SP-8). Edema and difficult urination: Combine with Yinlingquan (SP-9) and Sanjiaoshu (BL-22). Diarrhea: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25), Zusanli (ST-36), and Shangjuxu (ST-37). Abdominal distension and pain: Combine with Qihai (RN-6) and Zhongwan (RN-12).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai). It regulates the water passages, promotes diuresis and reduces edema, strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, and regulates qi and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating disorders caused by internal retention of water-dampness. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Shui" refers to water and dampness; "Fen" means to separate or divide. Located 1 cun above the umbilicus, this point is where fluids are separated and regulated – it regulates the water passages and divides water-dampness – hence the name Shuifen (Water Divide). It is also known as "Fenshui" and "Zhongshou."
