ST 38 — Tiáo Kǒu (条口) — Ribbon Opening
On this page
1. Overview
ST 38 — Tiáo Kǒu (条口) — is an acupuncture point on the Stomach meridian. Its English name, Ribbon Opening, 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
8 cun below ST 35, one finger-breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, midway between ST 36 and ST 41.
3. Actions
- Primary distal point for shoulder pain — particularly frozen shoulder
- Activates the meridian and relieves lower limb pain
- Warms and transforms Cold-Damp obstruction in the shoulder
4. Indications
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) — the most important distal point
- Shoulder pain and restricted movement
- Numbness and weakness of the lower leg
- Foot drop
5. Needling
Perpendicular insertion 1.0–1.5 cun. For frozen shoulder: needle with strong stimulation while the patient actively moves the shoulder through its range.
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
ST 38 is best known in clinical practice for its remarkable effectiveness as a distal point for frozen shoulder. The technique of needling ST 38 with strong stimulation while the patient actively moves the affected shoulder — known as 'motion acupuncture' — can produce dramatic improvement in range of movement within a single treatment. This is one of the most clinically impressive effects in acupuncture and is well documented.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use ST 38 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Frozen shoulder, Shoulder 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.
