LR-8 - Spring at the Crook
曲泉 - Qū quán
Point Region: Knee
LR-8 Ququan, meaning 'Bend Spring,' is the He-Sea and Water point of the Liver channel. Located on the knee, this point is a 'spring of the bend' that helps to regulate the body's internal energy and restore a sense of balance. Its name, 'Bend Spring,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.
Think of Ququan as a point that helps to 'replenish the spring' of your body. It's invaluable for addressing issues like a restless spirit, a feeling of 'heat' in the body, and a lack of vitality. By regulating the body's internal energy, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.
By regulating the body's internal energy, LR-8 helps to restore a sense of balance and inner peace. It's a point that reminds us that our true power comes from a calm and unburdened body.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: Located at the inner knee crease, in the depression anterior to the hamstring tendons.
How to Locate:
- Bend your knee slightly
- Find the crease on the inner side of your knee
- Feel for the depression in front of the hamstring tendons
- The point is in this hollow at your inner knee crease
Primary Functions
Liver & Gallbladder System
- Tonifies liver yin and nourishes liver blood
- Treats liver yin deficiency patterns
- Harmonizes liver and kidney relationship
- Supports liver's blood storage function
Reproductive System
- Treats impotence and erectile dysfunction
- Addresses premature ejaculation
- Regulates seminal emission
- Treats vaginal prolapse and uterine disorders
- Supports reproductive vitality
- Treats infertility in both genders
Urinary System
- Treats urinary incontinence and retention
- Regulates bladder function
- Addresses frequent or difficult urination
- Treats urinary tract infections
Musculoskeletal System
- Relieves knee pain and stiffness
- Treats knee joint disorders
- Improves knee flexibility and mobility
- Addresses leg muscle weakness
Emotional & Mental
- Calms mental restlessness and anxiety
- Treats depression and emotional instability
- Promotes mental clarity and focus
- Stabilizes emotions
Digestive System
- Treats abdominal pain and distension
- Improves digestive function
- Harmonizes liver-stomach relationship
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Irregular menstruation
- Genital pain
- Knee stiffness
- Menstrual problems
- Reproductive issues
- Knee pain
- Pelvic disorders
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
LR-8 Protocols
Menstrual Support & Yin Nourishment (4 minutes)
- Sit with knee bent and relaxed
- Locate LR-8 (at the medial end of the popliteal crease, anterior to the tendons)
- Apply gentle pressure for 30 seconds on each leg
- Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to nourish Liver blood and ease menstrual discomfort
- Repeat pressure while breathing deeply and relaxing the lower abdomen
Important Precautions
- Pregnancy
- Recent knee surgery
- Severe reproductive disorders