Xiyan — Xī Yǎn (膝眼) — Knee Eyes
On this page
1. Overview
Xiyan — Xī Yǎn (膝眼) — is an acupuncture point on the Extra points (knee) meridian. Its English name, Knee Eyes, 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
Two points in the depressions on either side of the patellar ligament, located when the knee is flexed at 90°. The lateral point is ST 35 (Dubi); the medial is the extra point Neixiyan.
3. Actions
- Primary local points for the knee joint
- Dispels Wind-Cold-Damp from the knee
- Reduces swelling and inflammation in the joint
4. Indications
- Knee pain from any cause — the most important local combination
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Post-surgical knee stiffness and pain
- Knee effusion
5. Needling
Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.8–1.2 cun directed towards the centre of the joint.
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
Xiyan (Knee Eyes) refers to the pair of depressions flanking the patellar ligament. Needling both eyes simultaneously is the most important local treatment for the knee joint. Combined with ST 36, SP 9 and SP 10 they form the foundational knee pain prescription used in virtually every knee treatment.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use Xiyan as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Knee 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.
