Indications

Lower limb weakness, heel pain, ankle pain, lumbar and leg pain, lower limb bi-pain, and epilepsy.

Precise Location

On the lateral side of the foot, directly below Kunlun (BL-60), on the lateral side of the calcaneus, at the junction of the red and white skin.

Location Method

The point is 1 horizontal finger-width (approximately 1 cun) directly below Kunlun – at the junction of the red and white skin on the lateral side of the calcaneus, where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.

Massage Method

Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Pucan with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat heel pain. Therapeutic actions: Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, strengthens the lumbar region and knees, unblocks the meridians and relieves pain.

Compatibility

Heel pain: Combine with Taixi (KI-3). Lower limb weakness: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34), Zusanli (ST-36), and Xuanzhong (GB-39). Lumbar and leg pain: Combine with Weizhong (BL-40), Chengshan (BL-57), and Kunlun (BL-60). Epilepsy: Combine with Shuigou (GV-26), Dazhui (GV-14), and Fenglong (ST-40).

Efficacy & Actions

This point belongs to the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian and is the meeting point of the Bladder Meridian and the Yang Qiao Vessel. It relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, strengthens the lumbar region and knees, unblocks the meridians and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating heel and lower limb disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Pu" means servant or attendant; "Can" means to pay respects or to join. Located on the lateral heel, the point is accessed in a prostrate position – hence the name Pucan (Servant's Attendance). It is also known as "Anxie."

Contraindications

Located on the heel, needling depth should be carefully controlled – generally 0.3–0.5 cun vertically to avoid periosteal injury. Moxibustion is permissible.