Shiqi Zhui Point (EX-B8 / Seventeenth Vertebra Point)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Shiqi Zhui (EX-B8 / Seventeenth Vertebra Point). Learn its benefits for lumbar pain, leg pain, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum pain – the extraordinary point for strengthening the kidneys – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Strengthens the lumbar region and tonifies the kidney, regulates the uterus, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, regulates menstruation and relieves pain. Treats lumbar pain, leg pain, lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum abdominal pain.
Precise Location
In the lumbar region, on the posterior midline below the spinous process of the 5th lumbar vertebra.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. First locate the spinous process of the 5th lumbar vertebra (approximately at the level of the iliac crests), then locate the point on the posterior midline.
Massage Method
Press and knead with the thumb pad or palm root for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily – a local sore-distending sensation is optimal. Mild-warm moxa may also be applied for 10–15 minutes per session. Therapeutic actions: Strengthens the lumbar region and tonifies the kidney, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, regulates the uterus, and regulates menstruation and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Postpartum abdominal pain: Combine with Zhongji (RN-3), Guanyuan (RN-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), Zhongliao (BL-33), Tianshu (ST-25), and Guilai (ST-29). Dysmenorrhea: Combine with Guanyuan (RN-4), Zhongji (RN-3), Qichong (ST-30), Taichong (LR-3), Diji (SP-8), Xuehai (SP-10), and Ciliao (BL-32). Lumbar and leg pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Weizhong (BL-40). Lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36). Irregular menstruation: Combine with Guanyuan (RN-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Xuehai (SP-10).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the posterior midline below the spinous process of the 5th lumbar vertebra. It strengthens the lumbar region and tonifies the kidney, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, regulates the uterus, and regulates menstruation and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating lumbar-leg pain and gynecological disorders. First documented in the Beiji Qianjin Yaofang (Emergency Thousand-Gold Formulas). "Shiqi Zhui" refers to the 17th vertebra (the 5th lumbar vertebra). Located below the spinous process of the 5th lumbar vertebra – hence the name Shiqi Zhui (Seventeenth Vertebra Point). Shiqi Zhui is an experienced effective point for treating lumbar pain, leg pain, and gynecological disorders – especially effective for dysmenorrhea and irregular menstruation. It is often combined with Guanyuan (RN-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Ciliao (BL-32).
Contraindications
Located on the posterior midline of the lumbar region – needling depth should be carefully controlled, generally 0.5–1 cun vertically, avoiding excessive depth to prevent spinal cord injury. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women.
