Bafeng — Bā Fēng (八风) — Eight Winds
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1. Overview
Bafeng — Bā Fēng (八风) — is an acupuncture point on the Extra points (dorsum of foot) meridian. Its English name, Eight Winds, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used regularly in acupuncture practice for a range of conditions.
I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience, practising at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
Eight points on the dorsum of both feet, in the depressions between the webs of the toes — four points per foot.
3. Actions
- Expels Wind-Damp-Heat from the foot and toes
- Reduces swelling and relieves pain in the toes and foot
- Activates the meridians of the foot
- Treats beriberi and foot oedema
4. Indications
- Toe joint pain and swelling — gout, rheumatoid arthritis of the toes
- Foot oedema and swelling
- Toothache via the Foot Yang channels
- Numbness and tingling of the toes
- Snake bite — a classical indication
5. Needling
Oblique insertion 0.5–0.8 cun directed proximally. Prick to bleed for acute conditions.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of in a clinical sharps container immediately after treatment.
6. Clinical notes
Bafeng (Eight Winds) are the foot equivalent of the Baxie hand points. They are particularly effective for gout affecting the big toe joint, rheumatoid arthritis of the toe joints and acute foot oedema. Bloodletting at the Bafeng points is used for acute gout attacks and inflammatory toe joint conditions. Combined with SP 6, KD 3 and LV 3 for comprehensive foot and toe treatment.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use Bafeng as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Plantar fasciitis. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.
