KI-7 - Returning Current
复溜 - Fù liū
Point Region: Leg/Calf
KI-7, or 'Fuliu' (meaning 'Returning Current'), is the 'Jing-River' and 'Metal' point of the Kidney channel. Located on the inner lower leg, its name refers to its ability to restore and 'return' the body's fluids and energy, much like a current of water returning to its source.
As a 'Jing-River' point, Fuliu is a master point for addressing water imbalances in the body, such as edema and sweating disorders. It is also used to 'tonify' the Kidney, helping to restore energy and vitality after a long illness or period of stress. Think of it as a 'returning current' that can help to pull energy back into the body's core, restoring a sense of balance and strength.
This point is a vital tool for anyone dealing with a sense of 'leaking' energy, whether it's in the form of excessive sweating, frequent urination, or a feeling of being 'drained.' By stimulating this point, you can help to restore the body's integrity and conserve its vital fluids, offering a profound sense of nourishment and renewal.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: Located on the medial lower leg, above KI-3, near the tendon.
How to Locate:
- Find the bony bump on the inner side of your ankle
- Move behind this bump toward your Achilles tendon
- Measure 2 finger-widths up from this ankle area
- The point is close to your Achilles tendon
Primary Functions
Urinary & Kidney System
- Tonifies kidney yang and qi
- Treats chronic kidney deficiency
- Regulates water metabolism and edema
- Strengthens kidney function
Immune & Energy System
- Boosts constitutional energy
- Strengthens defensive qi
- Treats chronic fatigue syndrome
- Enhances overall vitality
Musculoskeletal System
- Treats lower back weakness
- Strengthens bones and joints
- Addresses leg and foot weakness
Circulatory System
- Treats edema and fluid retention
- Improves circulation
- Regulates blood pressure
Digestive System
- Treats chronic diarrhea
- Strengthens digestive yang qi
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Edema
- Night sweats
- Low back pain
- Spontaneous sweating
- Fluid retention
- Sweating problems
- Back pain
- Kidney weakness
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
KI-7 Protocols
Fatigue & Fluid Balance Support (3 minutes)
- Sit with ankle relaxed and accessible
- Locate KI-7 (2 cun above KI-3, on the medial leg)
- Apply firm pressure for 30 seconds on each side
- Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to support energy and fluid metabolism
- Repeat pressure while breathing deeply and relaxing the abdomen
Important Precautions
- Recent leg surgery
- Severe kidney disease
- Acute leg injury