Liangmen Point (ST-21 / Beam Gate)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Liangmen (ST-21 / Beam Gate). Learn its benefits for stomach pain, vomiting, distension, and loose stools, plus classic combinations for gastric disorders.
Indications
Stomach pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, borborygmus (hyperactive bowel sounds), poor appetite (anorexia), loose stools, and hematemesis (vomiting blood). This point belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian. It harmonizes the stomach and descends rebellious qi, regulates qi and reduces distension, strengthens the spleen and stops diarrhea. It is a commonly used point for treating digestive system disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Liang" means beam or crossbeam; "Men" means gate or door. Located in the upper abdomen, where Stomach Meridian qi passes like a beam gate, distributing the essence of water and grain – hence the name Liangmen (Beam Gate).
Precise Location
In the upper abdomen, 4 cun above the umbilicus (center of the navel) and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Location Method
Lie supine. Locate the midpoint between the umbilicus (Shenque, RN-8) and the xiphoid process of the sternum (4 cun above the umbilicus), then measure 3 horizontal finger-widths (approximately 2 cun) laterally – that is the point.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb or the palm root. Press and knead Liangmen with the thumb or palm root about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat stomach pain and loose stools. Therapeutic actions: Harmonizes the stomach and descends rebellious qi, regulates qi and reduces distension, strengthens the spleen and stops diarrhea.
Compatibility
Stomach pain: Combine with Gongsun (SP-4) and Neiguan (PC-6).
