GV-6 - Spinal Center

脊中 - Jǐ zhōng

Point Region: Upper back

GV

Governing Vessel

督脉 - Dū mài

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra (T11).

How to Locate:

  1. Find L4 (level with the highest points of the hip bones) and count five bumps up to T11
  2. The point is in the hollow just below T11
GV-6 (Spinal Center) acupressure point location: On the back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra (T11).

How to Apply Pressure

With GV-6 identified, apply only comfortable fingertip pressure; a helper should not press hard, particularly if you are frail. Avoid the area after spinal trauma or with severe liver disease, and stop if discomfort increases.

Traditional Indications

In TCM, this point is traditionally used for:

  • Abdominal distension
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Spinal stiffness
  • Stomach pain

Related Health Concerns

BloatingFatigueStomach Cramps

Select a point to see its location, how to find it, and its traditional uses.

Important Precautions

Avoid this point with:

  • Acute spinal trauma
  • Severe liver disease

Take care:

  • Monitor for increased digestive symptoms
  • Avoid excessive pressure in frail patients