ST-43 - Sunken Valley

陷谷 - Xiàn gǔ

Point Region: Foot

ST

Stomach Meridian

足阳明胃经 - Zú Yángmíng Wèi Jīng

ST-43 Xiangu, meaning 'Sunken Valley,' is the 'Shu-Stream' and 'Wood' point. Located on the foot, it is a master point for regulating the Spleen and clearing edema. Its name, 'Sunken Valley,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.

Think of Xiangu as a point that helps to 'fill the valley' of your body. It's invaluable for addressing issues like a feeling of heaviness or a thick abdomen, a lack of vitality, and a restless spirit. By regulating the Spleen and clearing edema, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.

By regulating the Spleen and clearing edema, ST-43 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 dorsum of the foot, between the second and third metatarsals, in a depression just proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints.

How to Locate:

  1. Find the space between your second and third toes
  2. Trace this space up from your toes
  3. Stop just before where your toes join your foot
  4. The point is in the depression at this junction
Location illustration for On the dorsum of the foot, between the second and third metatarsals, in a depression just proximal to the metatarsophalangeal joints.

Primary Functions

Digestive System

  • Treats stomach pain and gastric disorders
  • Relieves indigestion and stomach weakness
  • Improves appetite and digestive function
  • Reduces stomach inflammation and irritation

Musculoskeletal System

  • Treats foot and toe pain
  • Relieves dorsal foot swelling and inflammation
  • Improves foot mobility and function

Nervous System

  • Treats facial swelling and edema
  • Calms the mind and reduces worry
  • Improves mental clarity and focus

Emotional & Mental

  • Reduces anxiety and emotional stress
  • Calms worry and overthinking
  • Improves emotional stability

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Abdominal pain
  • Intestinal sounds
  • Facial edema
  • Lower abdominal swelling
  • Foot pain
  • Digestive problems
  • Face swelling
  • Stomach problems

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

N/A

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

ST-43 Protocols

N/A

Important Precautions

  • Recent foot surgery
  • Severe foot injury
  • Acute digestive disorders