Xiguan Point (LR-7 / Knee Pass)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Xiguan (LR-7 / Knee Pass). Learn its benefits for knee pain, arthritis, and lower limb conditions – the Liver meridian point – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Knee and patellar swelling with pain, migratory joint pain (rheumatoid arthritis), lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome, knee arthritis, knee pain, wind-cold-damp bi-syndrome, and weakness of the legs and feet.
Precise Location
At the knee, below the medial condyle of the tibia, 1 cun posterior to Yinlingquan (SP-9).
Location Method
Sit with the knee flexed or lie supine. On the medial knee, first locate Yinlingquan (SP-9, in the depression below the medial condyle of the tibia), then measure 1 finger-width (approximately 1 cun) posteriorly – firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Press and knead Xiguan with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat knee pain. Therapeutic actions: Relaxs the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, frees and benefits the joints, dispels wind and dampness, and reduces swelling and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Knee arthritis: Combine with Liangqiu (ST-34) and Dubi (ST-35). Knee and patellar swelling with pain and knee pain: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34) and Xiyan (EX-LE4, EX-LE5). Lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36). Migratory joint pain: Combine with Quchi (LI-11), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Jueyin Liver Meridian. It relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, frees and benefits the joints, dispels wind and dampness, and reduces swelling and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating knee joint and lower limb disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Xi" refers to the knee joint; "Guan" means pass or pivot. Located on the medial side of the knee, this point serves as the pivot for knee flexion and extension – hence the name Xiguan (Knee Pass).
