Wailaogong Point (EX-UE8 / Outer Laogong, also known as Luozhen / Stiff Neck Point)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Wailaogong (EX-UE8 / Outer Laogong). Learn its benefits for stiff neck, cervical spondylosis, migraine, and abdominal pain – the extraordinary point for neck pain – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Unblocks the meridians and collaterals, dispels wind and relieves pain, regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, relaxes the sinews and benefits the joints. Treats cervical spondylosis, stiff neck, migraine, abdominal pain, diarrhea, indigestion, dorsal hand swelling and pain, and finger numbness.
Precise Location
On the dorsum of the hand, 0.5 cun posterior to the metacarpophalangeal joint between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine with the hand extended and palm facing down. On the dorsum of the hand between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones, measure 0.5 cun (approximately half a finger-width) posterior to the metacarpophalangeal joint – firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation. One point on each side.
Massage Method
Press and knead firmly with the thumb pad or fingertip for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily – a strong local sore-distending sensation is optimal. Coordinate with slow neck movements (turning left/right, tilting forward/backward) during massage for enhanced effect. For stiff neck treatment, press the Wailaogong on the affected side first, then move the neck – results are significantly better. Therapeutic actions: Unblocks the meridians and collaterals, dispels wind and relieves pain, regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, relaxes the sinews and benefits the joints.
Compatibility
Stiff neck: Combine with Lieque (LU-7) and Houxi (SI-3). Cervical spondylosis: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Jianjing (GB-21), and Houxi (SI-3). Migraine: Combine with Taiyang (EX-HN5), Shuaigu (GB-8), and Waiguan (TE-5). Abdominal pain and diarrhea: Combine with Zhongwan (RN-12), Tianshu (ST-25), and Zusanli (ST-36). Indigestion: Combine with Pishu (BL-20), Weishu (BL-21), and Zusanli (ST-36). Dorsal hand swelling and finger numbness: Combine with Hegu (LI-4) and Baxie (EX-UE9).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the dorsum of the hand, 0.5 cun posterior to the metacarpophalangeal joint between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones. It unblocks the meridians and collaterals, dispels wind and relieves pain, regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, and relaxes the sinews and benefits the joints. It is a commonly used key point for treating cervical spondylosis, stiff neck, and migraine – especially effective for stiff neck. First documented in the Xiaoer Tuina Fangmai Huoying Bizhi Quanshu (Complete Book of Pediatric Tuina and Emergency Treatment). "Wai" refers to the dorsal side of the hand; "Laogong" refers to the Laogong point on the palm. Located on the dorsum of the hand opposite Laogong (PC-8) – hence the name Wailaogong (Outer Laogong). It is also known as "Luozhen" (Stiff Neck Point) and "Xiangqiang" (Neck Stiffness Point). Wailaogong is an experienced effective point for treating stiff neck – earning it the name "Stiff Neck Point." It also effectively treats cervical spondylosis, migraine, and other neck and head pain conditions. It is often combined with Houxi (SI-3), Lieque (LU-7), and Fengchi (GB-20).
Contraindications
Located on the dorsum of the hand – needling depth should be carefully controlled, generally 0.3–0.5 cun vertically, avoiding deep insertion. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women. Massage pressure should be firm but within the patient's tolerance, without excessive force.
