Stomach meridian

ST-31 (Bìguān, 髀关) — Thigh Gate

Meridian
Stomach (ST)
Anatomical view
anterior
Point classification
Regional Stomach channel point at the hip and proximal thigh.
Depth reference
1.0-2.0 cun perpendicular
Moxibustion
Not established in checked point-specific sources.
Reference aliases
ST31; Biguan; 髀关; Thigh Gate

Anatomical location

On the anterior thigh, at the deepest point of the triangular depression between the proximal rectus femoris, sartorius, and tensor fasciae latae.

Traditional actions

Opens channel obstruction; dispels wind-damp; relieves hip and thigh pain.

Recorded indications

Primary: Hip or thigh pain; weakness, numbness, or reduced movement of the leg.

Secondary: Low back or knee pain; post-stroke lower-limb weakness in traditional use.

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 ST31, p. 61
  2. Acupuncture.Com Acupuncture Point Reference Stomach 31

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST-31 located?

On the anterior thigh, at the deepest point of the triangular depression between the proximal rectus femoris, sartorius, and tensor fasciae latae.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for ST-31?

Opens channel obstruction; dispels wind-damp; relieves hip and thigh pain. The dataset lists these primary indications: Hip or thigh pain; weakness, numbness, or reduced movement of the leg. Secondary indications are recorded as: Low back or knee pain; post-stroke lower-limb weakness in traditional use.

Is ST-31 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify ST-31 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.