Stomach 34 (ST-34), also known as “Liangqiu”, or bright valley, is a significant acupuncture point located on the Stomach meridian. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each acupuncture point has specific indications and functions. Here’s some information about ST-34:
Table of Contents
Location Of Stomach 34
ST-34 is located on the anterior aspect of the thigh. It is about an inch diagonal from the upper outer corner of the patella (knee).
Functions of Stomach 34
This point may also be useful with acid reflux. Lightly tapping the point with a finger or knuckle during for about 5 – 8 seconds. Repeat 2-3x. I’ve used it personally and have seen results in the clinical setting. More research is needed, however it is a very safe and effective point in my opinion.
Indications in TCM:
Stomach Disorders: As it’s on the Stomach meridian, ST-34 is primarily used for disorders related to the Stomach, such as gastritis, abdominal pain, and indigestion.
Knee Pain and Disorders: It’s commonly used for knee pain, stiffness, swelling, and other knee disorders.
Harmonizing the Digestive System: ST-34 is believed to regulate and harmonize the functions of the Stomach and Spleen, which are crucial for digestion and metabolism. Again, that goes with indigestion and bloating.
Regulating Qi and Blood: In TCM theory, ST-34 is associated with regulating the flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood in the Stomach meridian and surrounding areas.
Techniques for Stimulating Stomach 34
Acupuncture can be used, as well as acupressure which can be taught to patients and used outside the clinical setting. Techniques such as manipulation of the needle, moxibustion (burning of mugwort herb), or acupressure may also be used to stimulate this point.
Research on Stomach 34 Acupuncture Point
A study published in a 2014 journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a group of points were stimulated with acupressure including stomach 34. The authors believed “that acupressure at three distal acupuncture points in the Stomach Meridian, “Liangqiu” (ST 34), “Zusanli” (ST 36), and “Jiexi” (ST 41), led to sympathetic nervous activation.”1
As with any acupuncture point, the specific indications and effects of ST-34 may vary depending on the individual’s condition and the overall treatment strategy devised by the practitioner. Always consult a qualified and licensed acupuncturist for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
- Shiro, Yukiko, Arai, Young-Chang P., Ikemoto, Tatsunori, Kawai, Takashi, Ikeuchi, Masahiko, Ushida, Takahiro, Distal Traditional Acupuncture Points of the Large Intestinal Meridian and the Stomach Meridian Differently Affect Heart Rate Variability and Oxygenation of the Trapezius Muscle, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014, 283010, 5 pages, 2014. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/283010 ↩︎
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