Zhongchong Point (PC-9 / Middle Thoroughfare)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Zhongchong (PC-9 / Middle Thoroughfare). Learn its benefits for stroke, heatstroke, angina, and infantile convulsions – the Pericardium meridian Jing-Well point for emergency – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Febrile diseases, restlessness, anhidrosis, hot palms, stroke with coma, heatstroke, infantile convulsions, angina pectoris, and stiff tongue with inability to speak.
Precise Location
Located on the Pericardium Meridian, at the center of the tip of the middle finger.
Location Method
Extend the hand with the palm facing up, slightly flexed at approximately 45°. Lightly hold the finger with the other hand, four fingers supporting the dorsum, bend the thumb and press vertically with the nail tip at the center of the middle fingertip.
Massage Method
Press vertically with the thumbnail of one hand at the center of the middle fingertip of the other hand – a stinging sensation will occur. Apply to both sides once each morning and evening for 1–3 minutes, left first then right. Therapeutic actions: Clears heart fire and drains heat, resuscitates the patient and restores consciousness, opens the orifices and unblocks the collaterals.
Compatibility
Stroke: Combine with Shuigou (GV-26), Baihui (GV-20), Fengchi (GB-20), Shixuan (EX-UE11), and Zhongchong (PC-9). Disease overview: Stroke is characterized by sudden loss of consciousness, facial deviation, speech difficulty, and hemiplegia. Due to rapid onset and variable symptoms, it is named for its similarity to the swift and changeable nature of wind. Massage sequence: Immediate hospital treatment is essential – meanwhile, press Shuigou firmly until consciousness returns; then massage Baihui for 1 minute, knead Fengchi for 1 minute, pinch Shixuan sequentially with the index finger and thumb, and finally massage Zhongchong for 1 minute. Heatstroke: Combine with Shaoshang (LU-11), Zhongchong (PC-9), and Shangyang (LI-1). Infantile convulsions: Combine with Wuchu (BL-5), Zhigou (TE-6), and Zhongchong (PC-9). Angina pectoris: Combine with Xinshu (BL-15), Shentang (BL-44), Dazhu (BL-11), Fengmen (BL-12), and Zhongchong (PC-9). Febrile diseases, restlessness, anhidrosis: Combine with Dazhui (GV-14), Quchi (LI-11), and Hegu (LI-4). Hot palms: Combine with Laogong (PC-8) and Shaofu (HT-8). Stiff tongue with inability to speak: Combine with Jinjin (EX-HN12) and Yuye (EX-HN13).
Efficacy & Actions
If you notice wrinkles appearing on the inner skin of your nails one day, it indicates that your liver and kidney functions are beginning to decline – a warning sign that requires extra attention. Regular massage of Zhongchong, located at the lower left corner of the middle fingernail, can stimulate the point and help restore liver and kidney function. This point belongs to the Hand Jueyin Pericardium Meridian and is the Jing-Well point where the meridian qi emerges (corresponding to the Wood element in the five-element theory). It clears heart fire and drains heat, resuscitates the patient and restores consciousness, opens the orifices and unblocks the collaterals. It is a commonly used key point for emergency and febrile diseases, with reducing technique or pricking bleeding commonly applied. First documented in Lingshu · Benshu. "Zhong" refers to the middle finger; "Chong" means thoroughfare or to rush through. Located at the tip of the middle finger, this point is where Pericardium Meridian qi rushes out – hence the name Zhongchong (Middle Thoroughfare).
