Zhongting Point (RN-16 / Middle Court)
Discover the exact location and acupressure/moxibustion method for Zhongting (RN-16 / Middle Court). Learn its benefits for heart pain, chest fullness, dysphagia, and vomiting – the Conception Vessel point – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Heart pain, chest fullness, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), vomiting, nausea, chest tightness, and wheezing.
Precise Location
On the chest, at the midpoint of the xiphisternal junction (the junction of the sternum and xiphoid process), on the anterior midline.
Location Method
Lie supine. On the anterior midline, locate the midpoint of the xiphisternal junction – approximately at the level of the 5th intercostal space.
Massage Method
Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Press and knead Zhongting with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat heart pain and vomiting. Therapeutic actions: Soothes the chest and regulates qi, descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting, and calms the heart and settles the spirit.
Compatibility
Vomiting: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23) and Yishe (BL-49). Heart pain and chest fullness: Combine with Tanzhong (RN-17) and Neiguan (PC-6). Dysphagia and nausea: Combine with Geshu (BL-17) and Zhongwan (RN-12). Chest tightness and wheezing: Combine with Feishu (BL-13) and Tiantu (RN-22).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai). It soothes the chest and regulates qi, descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting, and calms the heart and settles the spirit. It is a commonly used key point for treating heart, chest, and stomach disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Zhong" means middle; "Ting" means courtyard or hall. Located at the center of the anterior chest, below the sternum, like a courtyard in the middle – hence the name Zhongting (Middle Court).
