Kuangu Point (EX-LE1 / Hip Bone Point)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Kuangu (EX-LE1 / Hip Bone Point). Learn its benefits for leg pain, knee pain, and lower limb conditions – the extraordinary point for relieving leg pain – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, strengthens the lumbar region and knees. Treats leg pain, knee joint pain, lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome, hip joint pain, and lumbar-leg pain.
Precise Location
On the lower anterior thigh, 1.5 cun on both sides of Liangqiu (ST-34). Two points on each side.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine with the knee flexed. On the lower anterior thigh, first locate Liangqiu (ST-34, 2 cun above the lateral patellar base), then measure 1.5 cun (approximately 2 finger-widths) medially and laterally – one point on each side. Two points on each side, four points in total.
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. Coordinate with knee flexion and extension exercises to enhance meridian relaxation. Mild-warm moxa may also be applied for 10–15 minutes per point. Therapeutic actions: Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, strengthens the lumbar region and knees.
Compatibility
Leg pain: Combine with Liangqiu (ST-34) and Dubi (ST-35). Knee joint pain: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34), Xiyangguan (GB-33), and Xiyan (EX-LE4, EX-LE5). Lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome and numbness: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36). Lumbar-leg pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Weizhong (BL-40). Hip joint pain: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30) and Juliao (GB-29).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the lower anterior thigh, 1.5 cun on both sides of Liangqiu (ST-34). It relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, and strengthens the lumbar region and knees. It is an experienced effective point for treating leg pain and knee joint disorders. First documented in the Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. "Kuan" refers to the hip and thigh; "Gu" means bone. Located on the anterior thigh near the hip joint, this point treats leg pain and hip-knee pain – hence the name Kuangu (Hip Bone Point). Kuangu is an experienced effective point for treating leg pain, with good therapeutic effects on various leg and knee joint pains. It is often combined with Liangqiu (ST-34), Dubi (ST-35), and Yanglingquan (GB-34).
Contraindications
Located on the anterior thigh muscles – needling depth should be carefully controlled, generally 0.5–1 cun vertically, avoiding excessive depth to prevent injury to blood vessels and nerves. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women.
