Shiguan Point (KI-18 / Stone Pass, also known as Shimen)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Shiguan (KI-18 / Stone Pass). Learn its benefits for abdominal distension, vomiting, hiccups, and gynecological disorders – the meeting point of Kidney and Chong – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Abdominal distension, vomiting, hiccups, amenorrhea, leukorrhea, persistent postpartum lochiorrhea, vaginal itching, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Precise Location
In the upper abdomen, 3 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. Measure 4 finger-widths (approximately 3 cun) upward from the umbilicus – the point is 0.5 cun (about half a finger-width) lateral to the midline, where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Shiguan with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat abdominal distension, vomiting, and hiccups. Therapeutic actions: Harmonizes the stomach and descends rebellious qi, regulates qi and stops vomiting, and regulates menstruation and stops leukorrhea.
Compatibility
Stomach pain, vomiting, and abdominal distension: Combine with Zhongwan (RN-12). Hiccups: Combine with Neiguan (PC-6) and Geshu (BL-17). Amenorrhea: Combine with Guanyuan (RN-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Xuehai (SP-10). Leukorrhea and persistent postpartum lochiorrhea: Combine with Qihai (RN-6), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Shenshu (BL-23). Vaginal itching: Combine with Ligou (LR-5), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Zhongji (RN-3). Constipation: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Zusanli (ST-36).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian and is the meeting point of the Kidney Meridian and the Chong Vessel. It harmonizes the stomach and descends rebellious qi, regulates qi and stops vomiting, and regulates menstruation and stops leukorrhea. It is a commonly used key point for treating digestive system and gynecological disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Shi" means stone or firm; "Guan" means pass or gateway. Located in the upper abdomen, this point is a firm gateway for Kidney Meridian qi – hence the name Shiguan (Stone Pass). It is also known as "Shimen."
