LI-4 (Hégǔ, 合谷) — Union Valley

Anatomical location

On the back of the hand, beside the radial aspect of the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone.

Traditional actions

Releases exterior patterns; disperses wind; regulates the face and sensory openings; moves qi and relieves pain.

Recorded indications

Primary: Headache; toothache; facial pain; nasal obstruction; sore throat.

Secondary: Fever with chills; constipation; menstrual pain; delayed labour under specialist care.

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.