Xiajishu Point (EX-B6 / Lower Extreme Shu)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Xiajishu (EX-B6 / Lower Extreme Shu). Learn its benefits for nephritis, enuresis, lumbar strain, and abdominal pain – the extraordinary point for strengthening the kidneys – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Strengthens the lumbar region and tonifies the kidney, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, promotes diuresis and resolves dampness. Treats nephritis (glomerulonephritis, chronic nephritis), enuresis (urinary incontinence, nocturnal enuresis), lumbar muscle strain, lumbar pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and difficult urination.
Precise Location
In the lumbar region, below the spinous process of the 3rd lumbar vertebra, on the posterior midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. First locate the spinous process of the 3rd lumbar vertebra (approximately one vertebra above the iliac crest line), then locate the point on the posterior midline.
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. Mild-warm moxa may also be applied for 10–15 minutes per session. Therapeutic actions: Strengthens the lumbar region and tonifies the kidney, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, promotes diuresis and resolves dampness.
Compatibility
Lumbar pain: Combine with Sanjiaoshu (BL-22) and Shenshu (BL-23). Nephritis and difficult urination: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Pangguangshu (BL-28), and Sanyinjiao (SP-6). Enuresis: Combine with Zhongji (RN-3), Guanyuan (RN-4), and Sanyinjiao (SP-6). Lumbar muscle strain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Weizhong (BL-40). Abdominal pain and diarrhea: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Zusanli (ST-36).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the posterior midline below the spinous process of the 3rd lumbar vertebra. It strengthens the lumbar region and tonifies the kidney, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, and promotes diuresis and resolves dampness. It is a commonly used key point for treating kidney and lumbar-abdominal disorders. First documented in the Beiji Qianjin Yaofang (Emergency Thousand-Gold Formulas). "Xia" means lower; "Ji" means extreme or utmost; "Shu" means point of transport. Located in the lower lumbar region where qi is transported, this point tonifies the kidney and strengthens the lumbar region – hence the name Xiajishu (Lower Extreme Shu). Xiajishu is located on the midline of the lumbar region along the Governor Vessel. It is an experienced effective point for treating lumbar pain, enuresis, nephritis, and other kidney-related disorders, often combined with Shenshu (BL-23) and Sanjiaoshu (BL-22).
Contraindications
Located on the posterior midline of the lumbar region – needling depth should be carefully controlled, generally 0.5–1 cun vertically, avoiding excessive depth to prevent spinal cord injury. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women.
