ST-31 - Thigh Joint

髀关 - Bì guān

Point Region: Leg/Thigh

ST

Stomach Meridian

足阳明胃经 - Zú Yángmíng Wèi Jīng

ST-31 Biguan, meaning 'Thigh Gate,' is a point that activates the leg channel and alleviates hip pain. Located on the thigh, it is a key point for addressing a wide range of issues that are caused by stagnation or excess heat in the leg. Its name, 'Thigh Gate,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.

Think of Biguan as a point that helps to 'open the gates' to your thigh. It's invaluable for addressing issues like a tight hip, a sore thigh, and a feeling of 'stuckness' in the leg. By activating the leg channel and alleviating hip pain, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.

By activating the leg channel and alleviating hip pain, ST-31 helps to restore a sense of balance and inner peace. It's a point that reminds us that our true power comes from a well-regulated and harmonious body.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spine and the lateral border of the patella, approximately at the level of the perineum when supine.

How to Locate:

  1. Find the bony prominence at the front of your hip bone
  2. Find the outer edge of your kneecap
  3. Draw an imaginary line between these two points
  4. The point is on this line at the level of your groin area
Location illustration for On the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spine and the lateral border of the patella, approximately at the level of the perineum when supine.

Primary Functions

Musculoskeletal System

  • Treats hip pain and dysfunction
  • Relieves thigh muscle tension and weakness
  • Improves hip joint mobility and function
  • Treats sciatica and hip joint disorders

Digestive System

  • Harmonizes stomach qi in lower body
  • Treats abdominal distension affecting mobility

Circulatory System

  • Improves circulation in hip and thigh region
  • Reduces swelling and inflammation in lower limbs

Nervous System

  • Treats nerve pain and numbness in thigh
  • Relieves sciatic nerve irritation

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Sciatica
  • Hip joint pain
  • Leg paralysis
  • Leg weakness
  • Hernia-related discomfort
  • Thigh pain
  • Hip stiffness
  • Lower limb numbness

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

N/A

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

ST-31 Protocols

N/A

Important Precautions

  • Recent hip surgery
  • Severe hip fracture
  • Acute hip dislocation
  • Deep vein thrombosis