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Stomach 25 (ST 25), known as Tianshu, is the Front-Mu point of the Large Intestine. This acupuncture point plays an important role in regulating intestinal function and is frequently used in clinical practice for digestive disorders such as constipation and diarrhea.
Because of its direct relationship with the Large Intestine, ST 25 is often considered one of the primary local points for disorders affecting the abdomen and bowel movement regulation.
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Stomach 25 Acupuncture Point Location
ST 25 is located 2 cun lateral to the center of the umbilicus.1
In practice, the point lies on both sides of the navel along the abdominal region. Care should be taken when locating the point to ensure the measurement is taken laterally from the umbilical center.
A stainless-steel acupuncture pen and gua sha set.
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Needling Method
According to CAM (Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion), needling is typically performed perpendicularly 0.7–1.2 inches.
Moxibustion may also be applied at this point when clinically appropriate.
In clinical practice, I prefer not to needle this point deeply. Even though classical texts describe deeper insertion ranges, a more conservative approach is often sufficient.
Indications
According to traditional Chinese medicine texts, ST 25 is indicated for several digestive and abdominal conditions including:
- Abdominal pain and abdominal distension
- Borborygmus (intestinal rumbling)
- Pain around the umbilicus
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Irregular menstruation
- Edema
Due to its relationship with intestinal function, this point is commonly used in treatment strategies aimed at restoring normal digestive movement and relieving stagnation in the abdomen.
Regional Anatomy
Vasculature
Branches of the tenth intercostal artery and the inferior epigastric arteries and veins are located in this region.
Innervation
The area is innervated by a branch of the tenth intercostal nerve.
Understanding the anatomy of this region is important for safe needling and for appreciating the neurovascular structures that may contribute to the therapeutic effects of this point.
Clinical Perspective
A shallow insertion of approximately half a cun, or about half an inch, can be effective. This is especially important because patients may have very different abdominal tissue thickness depending on factors such as body composition and muscle tone.
ST 25 is widely regarded as an excellent point for supporting digestive function. It is frequently incorporated into treatment strategies for both excess and deficiency conditions affecting the intestines.
Many times I will use the infrared heat lamp directly above the abdomen with usage of ST 25. Caution is needed of course to ensure the lamp doesn’t become to warm over the area or to make certain the lamp isn’t directed towards/near the patients face.
- Cheng X, ed. Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Beijing, China: Foreign Languages Press; 1993:142. ↩︎
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Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
