Yaoyi Point (EX-B5 / Lumbar Harmony)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Yaoyi (EX-B5 / Lumbar Harmony). Learn its benefits for lumbar pain, soft tissue injury, metrorrhagia, and acute lumbar sprain – the extraordinary point for harmonizing the lumbar region – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, regulates menstruation and stops bleeding. Treats soft tissue injury of the lumbar region, lumbar pain, metrorrhagia, spinal muscle spasm, acute lumbar sprain, and chronic lumbar pain.
Precise Location
In the lumbar region, 3 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. First locate the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra (approximately at the level of the iliac crests), then measure 3 cun (approximately 4 finger-widths) laterally – that is the point. One point on each side.
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 radiating to the lumbar region is optimal. Mild-warm moxa may also be applied for 10–15 minutes per point. Therapeutic actions: Regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, regulates menstruation and stops bleeding.
Compatibility
Metrorrhagia: Combine with Ciliao (BL-32), Diji (SP-8), and Sanyinjiao (SP-6); or combine with Dadun (LR-1) and Yinbai (SP-1) with pricking bloodletting. Lumbar pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Weizhong (BL-40), and Ashi points (local tender points). Acute lumbar sprain: Combine with Yinmen (BL-37) or Weizhong (BL-40). Soft tissue injury of the lumbar region: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Ashi points.
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located 3 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra. It regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, and regulates menstruation and stops bleeding. It is a commonly used key point for treating lumbar pain and gynecological bleeding disorders. First documented in the Zhenjiu Kongxue ji Qiliao Bianlan (Acupuncture Points and Therapy Compendium). "Yao" refers to the lumbar region; "Yi" means appropriate or harmonious. Located in the lumbar region, this point treats lumbar pain and harmonizes lumbar qi and blood – hence the name Yaoyi (Lumbar Harmony). Yaoyi is an experienced effective point for treating lumbar pain, with good therapeutic effects on acute lumbar sprain, chronic lumbar muscle strain, and lumbar disc herniation. It is also used for gynecological bleeding disorders such as metrorrhagia.
Contraindications
Located in the lumbar region – needling depth and angle should be carefully controlled, generally 0.8–1.2 cun vertically, avoiding deep insertion to prevent internal organ injury. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women. Strict disinfection is required for bloodletting.
