Qianding Point (GV-21 / Anterior Vertex, also known as Dian Ding)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Qianding (GV-21 / Anterior Vertex). Learn its benefits for epilepsy, infantile convulsions, headache, and sinusitis – the Governor Vessel point for clearing the head – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Epilepsy, infantile convulsions, headache (frontal headache, vertex headache), dizziness, sinusitis, epistaxis (nosebleed), blurred vision, and insomnia.
Precise Location
On the head, 3.5 cun directly above the anterior hairline on the midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. First locate Baihui (GV-20, 5 cun above the anterior hairline), then measure 2 finger-widths (approximately 1.5 cun) anteriorly – that is the point.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Qianding with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat headache and nosebleeds. Therapeutic actions: Revives the spirit and opens the orifices, clears the head and brightens the eyes, calms the liver and extinguishes wind, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Epilepsy and infantile convulsions: Combine with Dazhui (GV-14), Fenglong (ST-40), and Shuigou (GV-26). Headache and dizziness: Combine with Baihui (GV-20), Fengchi (GB-20), and Taichong (LR-3). Sinusitis: Combine with Shangxing (GV-23), Yintang (EX-HN3), and Yingxiang (LI-20). Epistaxis: Combine with Shangxing (GV-23) and Hegu (LI-4). Insomnia: Combine with Shenmen (HT-7) and Sanyinjiao (SP-6).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Governor Vessel (Du Mai). It revives the spirit and opens the orifices, clears the head and brightens the eyes, calms the liver and extinguishes wind, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating head, facial, and mental disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Qian" means anterior; "Ding" means vertex or top. Located at the anterior part of the vertex – hence the name Qianding (Anterior Vertex). It is also known as "Dian Ding."
