Lanwei Point (EX-LE7 / Appendix Point)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Lanwei (EX-LE7 / Appendix Point). Learn its benefits for acute and chronic appendicitis, indigestion, and lower limb paralysis – the extraordinary point for appendicitis – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Clears heat and removes toxins, resolves stasis and unblocks the fu-organ, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, reduces swelling and relieves pain. Treats acute and chronic appendicitis, indigestion, lower limb paralysis, lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome, intestinal abscess (appendicitis), and abdominal pain (right lower quadrant pain).
Precise Location
On the upper anterior lower leg, 5 cun below Dubi (ST-35), one finger-width (approximately 1 cun) lateral to the anterior border of the tibia.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine with the knee flexed. First locate Dubi (ST-35, in the lateral depression below the patella), then measure 5 cun (approximately 7 finger-widths) directly downward and one finger-width (approximately 1 cun) lateral to the anterior tibial border. One point on each side.
Massage Method
Press and knead with the thumb pad for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily – a local sore-distending sensation is optimal. During acute appendicitis, the point often shows marked tenderness – firm kneading may help relieve pain. Mild-warm moxa may also be applied for 10–15 minutes per point.
Compatibility
Acute and chronic appendicitis: Combine with Shangjuxu (ST-37), Tianshu (ST-25), and Zusanli (ST-36). Indigestion: Combine with Zusanli (ST-36) and Zhongwan (RN-12). Lower limb paralysis and flaccidity: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36). 【Notes】 During acute appendicitis, marked tenderness or cord-like reactions may be palpated at Lanwei. Pressing or needling this point may help relieve right lower quadrant pain. Acute appendicitis is a surgical emergency. If symptoms persist or worsen, immediate medical attention is required without delay.
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the upper anterior lower leg, 5 cun below Dubi (ST-35) and one finger-width lateral to the anterior border of the tibia. It clears heat and removes toxins, resolves stasis and unblocks the fu-organ, unblocks the meridians and collaterals, and reduces swelling and relieves pain. It is an experienced effective point for treating acute and chronic appendicitis. First documented in the Zhongyi Zhenjiuxue (TCM Acupuncture Studies). "Lanwei" refers to the appendix. This point is a key point for treating appendicitis – hence the name Lanwei (Appendix Point). Lanwei is an experienced effective point for treating acute and chronic appendicitis, with good adjunctive therapeutic effects for acute appendicitis. It is also used for indigestion and lower limb paralysis, often combined with Shangjuxu (ST-37) and Tianshu (ST-25). During acute appendicitis, this point often shows marked tenderness.
Contraindications
Located on the anterior lower leg – needling depth should be carefully controlled, generally 0.8–1.2 cun vertically. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women. If signs of peritonitis (muscle guarding, rebound tenderness) appear, surgical referral is necessary.
