Extra points

EX-B-8 (Shíqīzhuī, 十七椎) — Seventeenth Vertebra

View this point in the 3D atlas
Meridian
Extra points (EX)
Anatomical view
posterior
Point classification
Extra (non-channel) point on the midline.
Depth reference
Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun.
Moxibustion
Suitable for moxibustion.
Reference aliases
EXB-8; Shiqizhui; 十七椎; Seventeenth Vertebra

Anatomical location

On the low back, below the spinous process of the 5th lumbar vertebra, on the posterior median line.

Traditional actions

Strengthens the lumbar region, regulates menstruation and relieves pain.

Recorded indications

Primary: Lumbosacral pain; dysmenorrhea; irregular menstruation

Secondary: Weakness or paralysis of the lower limbs; sciatica

How to read this reference

AcuAtlas separates anatomical location, traditional classification, recorded actions, indications, insertion-depth references, and moxibustion notes because these fields answer different study questions. The location statement is the orientation anchor. The classification and actions describe traditional reference categories, while indications summarize how checked educational sources associate the point with established teaching material. They are not a recommendation to select or stimulate the point.

Depth and moxibustion entries are reproduced as bounded reference notes rather than procedural instructions. Individual anatomy, technique, angle, clinical setting, and local professional standards can change what is appropriate. Review the cited documents and supervised training material before using any technical field. The normalized map coordinate is included only to place the point on the matching AcuAtlas body plate; it is not a substitute for palpation or anatomical assessment.

Sources

References displayed on this page were recorded with the point dataset.

  1. WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region EX-B8
  2. Deadman P. A Manual of Acupuncture Extra points

Frequently asked questions

Where is EX-B-8 located?

On the low back, below the spinous process of the 5th lumbar vertebra, on the posterior median line.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for EX-B-8?

Strengthens the lumbar region, regulates menstruation and relieves pain. The dataset lists these primary indications: Lumbosacral pain; dysmenorrhea; irregular menstruation Secondary indications are recorded as: Weakness or paralysis of the lower limbs; sciatica

Is EX-B-8 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify EX-B-8 as one of its five mandatory pregnancy-caution points. That is not a declaration of safety. Pregnancy-related point selection requires individualized assessment by a qualified clinician.