Houding Point (GV-19 / Posterior Vertex, also known as Jiaochong)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Houding (GV-19 / Posterior Vertex). Learn its benefits for stiff neck, migraine, dizziness, and insomnia – the Governor Vessel point – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Stiff painful neck, headache (migraine, occipital headache), dizziness, restlessness, insomnia, heavy head sensation, blurred vision, and manic disorders.
Precise Location
On the head, 5.5 cun directly above the posterior hairline on the midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. On the posterior midline, locate the midpoint between the anterior and posterior hairlines (approximately 13 cun apart), then measure 0.5 cun posteriorly – that is the point. Approximately 1.5 cun posterior to Baihui (GV-20).
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. ② Scraping therapy: Scrape from front to back. Press and knead Houding with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat migraine. Therapeutic actions: Clears the head and brightens the eyes, calms the spirit and stabilizes the mind, calms the liver and extinguishes wind, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Migraine: Combine with Shuaigu (GB-8) and Taiyang (EX-HN5). Headache and dizziness: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Baihui (GV-20), and Taichong (LR-3). Stiff painful neck: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Tianzhu (BL-10), and Houxi (SI-3). Restlessness and insomnia: Combine with Shenmen (HT-7) and Xinshu (BL-15). Manic disorders: Combine with Shuigou (GV-26), Dazhui (GV-14), and Fenglong (ST-40).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Governor Vessel (Du Mai). It clears the head and brightens the eyes, calms the spirit and stabilizes the mind, calms the liver and extinguishes wind, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating head, neck, and mental disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Hou" means posterior; "Ding" means vertex or top. Located at the posterior part of the vertex – hence the name Houding (Posterior Vertex). It is also known as "Jiaochong."
