GV 3 — Yāo Yáng Guān (腰阳关) — Lumbar Yang Gate
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1. Overview
GV 3 — Yāo Yáng Guān (腰阳关) — is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) meridian. Its English name, Lumbar Yang Gate, 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. I practise at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
Below the spinous process of L4, on the posterior midline.
3. Actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang and warms the lumbar region
- Dispels Cold and Damp from the lumbar spine
- Activates the Du Mai and relieves lumbar pain
4. Indications
- Low back pain — particularly at L4 level
- Sciatica from L4 nerve root
- Leg weakness and paralysis
- Irregular menstruation from Cold
- Male sexual dysfunction from Kidney Yang deficiency
5. Needling
Perpendicular or slightly oblique superior insertion 0.5–1.0 cun. Moxibustion applicable.
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
GV 3 is the most important point on the lumbar spine below GV 4. Frequently used alongside GV 4 and BL 23 for lumbar pain with a Cold and deficiency component. Moxibustion at GV 3 is particularly effective for chronic lower back pain worse in cold and damp conditions.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use GV 3 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Back pain, Sciatica. 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.
