Changqiang Point (GV-1 / Long Strong, also known as Qizhi Yinxi, Weigu, Guiwei, Weicui, Gugan)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Changqiang (GV-1 / Long Strong). Learn its benefits for hemorrhoids, prolapse, constipation, and impotence – the Luo-Connecting point of the Governor Vessel – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Impotence, diarrhea, constipation, hematochezia (bloody stool), hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, lumbar and spinal stiffness with pain, coccygeal pain, dysentery, and childhood rectal prolapse.
Precise Location
In the perineal region, below the coccyx, at the midpoint of the line connecting the tip of the coccyx and the anus.
Location Method
Lie prone or laterally. Locate the point at the midpoint of the line connecting the tip of the coccyx and the anus.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb or middle finger. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Press and knead Changqiang with the thumb or middle finger about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat impotence, diarrhea, rectal prolapse, and hematochezia. Therapeutic actions: Regulates the intestines, raises yang and lifts prolapse, clears heat and drains dampness, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Rectal prolapse: Combine with Baihui (GV-20) and Chengshan (BL-57). Hemorrhoids and hematochezia: Combine with Chengshan (BL-57) and Erbai (EX-UE2). Diarrhea: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Zusanli (ST-36). Constipation: Combine with Zhigou (TE-6) and Shangjuxu (ST-37). Impotence: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Guanyuan (RN-4), and Sanyinjiao (SP-6). Coccygeal pain and lumbar-spinal stiffness: Combine with Weizhong (BL-40) and Shenshu (BL-23).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Governor Vessel (Du Mai) and is the Luo-Connecting point of the Governor Vessel, as well as the meeting point of the Governor Vessel with the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian and the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian. It regulates the intestines, raises yang and lifts prolapse, clears heat and drains dampness, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating anorectal and male disorders. First documented in Lingshu · Jingmai. "Chang" means long or lasting; "Qiang" means strong or robust. Located below the tip of the coccyx, this point is where Governor Vessel qi is strong and circulates enduringly – hence the name Changqiang (Long Strong). It is also known as "Qizhi Yinxi," "Weigu," "Guiwei," "Weicui," and "Gugan."
Contraindications
Located near the anus, hygiene and disinfection are required to prevent infection. Needling should be oblique, with the needle tip directed upward parallel to the sacrum, inserted 0.5–1 cun – avoid deep insertion to prevent injury to the rectum. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women.
