Yangjiao Point (GB-35 / Yang Intersection, also known as Bieyang, Zuliao)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Yangjiao (GB-35 / Yang Intersection). Learn its benefits for knee pain, leg and shin flaccidity, and sciatica – the meeting point of Gallbladder and Yang Wei – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Knee pain, flaccidity and bi-pain of the leg and shin, lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome, ankle pain, calf soreness, sciatica, and chest and hypochondriac fullness.
Precise Location
On the lateral lower leg, 7 cun above the tip of the lateral malleolus, at the posterior border of the fibula.
Location Method
On the line connecting the head of the popliteal crease and the tip of the lateral malleolus, 1 finger-width (approximately 1 cun) below the midpoint, at the posterior border of the fibula – firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation. (Alternatively, measure 7 cun directly upward from the lateral malleolus tip at the posterior border of the fibula.)
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Press and knead Yangjiao with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat lower limb bi-pain. Therapeutic actions: Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, unblocks the meridians and relieves pain, and dispels wind and cold.
Compatibility
Knee pain and lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34) and Zusanli (ST-36). Flaccidity and bi-pain of the leg and shin, calf soreness: Combine with Chengshan (BL-57) and Kunlun (BL-60). Sciatica: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Xuanzhong (GB-39). Ankle pain: Combine with Qiuxu (GB-40) and Jiexi (ST-41). Chest and hypochondriac fullness: Combine with Zhigou (TE-6) and Yanglingquan (GB-34).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian and is the meeting point of the Gallbladder Meridian and the Yang Wei Vessel, as well as the Xi-Cleft point of the Yang Wei Vessel. It relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, unblocks the meridians and relieves pain, and dispels wind and cold. It is a commonly used key point for treating lower limb and knee disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Yang" refers to the yang meridians and the lateral side; "Jiao" means intersection. Located on the lateral lower leg, this point is where the Gallbladder Meridian and the Yang Wei Vessel intersect – hence the name Yangjiao (Yang Intersection). It is also known as "Bieyang" and "Zuliao."
Contraindications
Located on the lateral lower leg, needling depth should be carefully controlled – generally 0.8–1.2 cun vertically to avoid injury to the fibula and surrounding nerves. Moxibustion is permissible.
