Stomach meridian

ST-42 (Chōngyáng, 冲阳) — Rushing Yang

Meridian
Stomach (ST)
Anatomical view
anterior
Point classification
Yuan-source point of the Stomach channel.
Depth reference
0.2-0.5 cun perpendicular with strict vessel avoidance
Moxibustion
Not established in checked point-specific sources; avoid direct moxibustion over the dorsalis pedis artery.
Reference aliases
ST42; Chongyang; 冲阳; Rushing Yang

Anatomical location

On the dorsum of the foot, at the joint between the second metatarsal base and intermediate cuneiform, over the dorsalis pedis artery.

Traditional actions

Harmonizes the Stomach; clears channel heat; calms agitation; relieves pain on the foot and face.

Recorded indications

Primary: Epigastric pain; abdominal distention; swelling or pain on the dorsum of the foot.

Secondary: Facial swelling; toothache; deviation of the mouth or eye.

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 ST42, p. 67
  2. Acupuncture.Com Acupuncture Point Reference Stomach 42
  3. WHO Guidelines on Basic Training and Safety in Acupuncture Direct moxibustion over large vessels and circulatory-system safety, pp. 23 and 25
  4. Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, Clean Needle Technique Manual, 7th edition Dorsalis pedis artery and vascular injury prevention, p. 4

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST-42 located?

On the dorsum of the foot, at the joint between the second metatarsal base and intermediate cuneiform, over the dorsalis pedis artery.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for ST-42?

Harmonizes the Stomach; clears channel heat; calms agitation; relieves pain on the foot and face. The dataset lists these primary indications: Epigastric pain; abdominal distention; swelling or pain on the dorsum of the foot. Secondary indications are recorded as: Facial swelling; toothache; deviation of the mouth or eye.

Is ST-42 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify ST-42 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.