Touwei Point (ST-8 / Head Corner)
Indications
Headache, dizziness, mouth pain, tearing (lacrimation), and facial spasm.
Precise Location
In the hairline on the lateral side of the head, one finger-width above the hairline point, 0.5 cun above the forehead corner hairline, 4.5 cun lateral to the midline of the head. The muscle here moves when the mouth moves.
Location Method
Sit upright, recline, or lie supine. Bring the index and middle fingers together – place the middle finger pad at the hairline point on the lateral side of the head; the point is where the index finger pad rests.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb or middle finger. Straighten both index fingers and knead the points on both sides with the finger pads for 1–3 minutes per session. Therapeutic actions: Clears the mind and brightens the eyes, relieves pain and stops spasms.
Compatibility
Tearing in windy conditions (epiphora): Combine with Fengchi (GB-20) and Touwei (ST-8). Disease overview: The eyes appear normal – not red, swollen, or itchy – but when exposed to wind, tears flow involuntarily and vision becomes blurred. Massage sequence: Cross both thumbs and raise them to the back of the head – press Fengchi with both thumbs for 2 minutes, then press Touwei near the forehead for 3 minutes. Headache: Combine with Yongquan (KI-1), Touwei (ST-8), and Daling (PC-7). Eyelid twitching: Combine with Cuanzhu (BL-2), Sizhukong (TE-23), and Touwei (ST-8). Schizophrenia: Combine with Houxi (SI-3), Taichong (LR-3), Yongquan (KI-1), and Touwei (ST-8).
Efficacy & Actions
Facial expressions of joy and sorrow are governed by the facial nerves. If the face experiences pain or spasm, it not only affects daily life but also causes great distress. Even if the pain is tolerable, the resulting unnatural expressions can make others feel uncomfortable. The treatment is not difficult – regular massage of Touwei point can bring relief. This point belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian and is the meeting point of the Stomach Meridian, Gallbladder Meridian, and Yang Wei Vessel. It clears the mind and brightens the eyes, relieves pain and stops spasms. It is a key point for treating head and facial disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Tou" means head; "Wei" means to maintain or protect. Located at the corner of the head, where Yangming meridian qi maintains and protects the head and eyes – hence the name Touwei (Head Corner).
