ST 31 — Bì Guān (髀关) — Thigh Gate
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1. Overview
ST 31 — Bì Guān (髀关) — is an acupuncture point on the Stomach meridian. Its English name, Thigh Gate, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used in acupuncture practice as part of channel-balancing prescriptions 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 use ST 31 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
This point can be found directly below the anterior superior iliac spine, level with the perineum.
3. Actions
- Activates the channel
- Alleviates pain
- Dispels Wind-Damp
- Removes obstruction from the channel
4. Indications
- Atrophy disorder
- Painful obstruction of the lower limb
- Hemiplegia
- Numbness of the legs
- Cold-Damp leg-Qi
- Hip joint pain
- Thigh pain
- Sciatica
- Contraction of the thigh muscles
5. Needling
Perpendicular or oblique insertion 1 to 2 cun.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. Never attempt self-needling. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment in a clinical sharps container.
6. Clinical notes
ST 31 Bì Guān (Thigh Gate) is used as part of channel-balancing prescriptions tailored to the patient’s individual TCM diagnosis.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use ST 31 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Hemiplegia, Sciatica, Arthritis, Back pain. 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.
