Waiqiu Point (GB-36 / Outer Mound)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Waiqiu (GB-36 / Outer Mound). Learn its benefits for epilepsy, stiff neck, chest pain, and lower limb conditions – the Gallbladder meridian Xi-Cleft point – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Epilepsy, stiff painful neck, chest and hypochondriac pain, lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome, beriberi, ankle pain, and headache.
Precise Location
On the lateral lower leg, 7 cun above the tip of the lateral malleolus, at the anterior border of the fibula.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. Measure 7 cun (approximately 10 finger-widths) directly upward from the tip of the lateral malleolus – the point is in the depression at the anterior border of the fibula, where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Waiqiu with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat stiff painful neck, epilepsy, and lower limb bi-pain. Therapeutic actions: Soothes the liver and regulates qi, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, clears heat and extinguishes wind, and calms fright and settles the spirit.
Compatibility
Epilepsy: Combine with Dazhui (GV-14), Shuigou (GV-26), and Fenglong (ST-40). Stiff painful neck: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Tianzhu (BL-10), and Houxi (SI-3). Chest and hypochondriac pain: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34) and Zhigou (TE-6). Lower limb flaccidity/bi-syndrome: Combine with Huantiao (GB-30), Yanglingquan (GB-34), and Zusanli (ST-36). Ankle pain: Combine with Jiexi (ST-41) and Qiuxu (GB-40).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian and is the Xi-Cleft point of this meridian. It soothes the liver and regulates qi, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, clears heat and extinguishes wind, and calms fright and settles the spirit. It is a commonly used key point for treating mental and lower limb disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Wai" means outer; "Qiu" means mound or prominence. Located on the lateral lower leg, at the prominence of the anterior border of the fibula – hence the name Waiqiu (Outer Mound).
Contraindications
Located on the lateral lower leg, needling depth should be carefully controlled – generally 0.8–1.2 cun vertically. Moxibustion is permissible.
