Stomach meridian

ST-43 (Xiàngǔ, 陷谷) — Sunken Valley

Meridian
Stomach (ST)
Anatomical view
anterior
Point classification
Shu-stream and Wood point of the Stomach channel.
Depth reference
0.5-1.0 cun perpendicular or oblique
Moxibustion
Not established in checked point-specific sources.
Reference aliases
ST43; Xiangu; 陷谷; Sunken Valley

Anatomical location

On the dorsum of the foot, between the second and third metatarsals, in the depression proximal to the second metatarsophalangeal joint.

Traditional actions

Regulates the Stomach, Spleen, and intestines; resolves dampness.

Recorded indications

Primary: Weak upper eyelids or difficulty opening the eyes; swelling or pain on the dorsum of the foot.

Secondary: Facial or generalized edema.

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 ST43, p. 67
  2. Acupuncture.Com Acupuncture Point Reference Stomach 43

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST-43 located?

On the dorsum of the foot, between the second and third metatarsals, in the depression proximal to the second metatarsophalangeal joint.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for ST-43?

Regulates the Stomach, Spleen, and intestines; resolves dampness. The dataset lists these primary indications: Weak upper eyelids or difficulty opening the eyes; swelling or pain on the dorsum of the foot. Secondary indications are recorded as: Facial or generalized edema.

Is ST-43 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify ST-43 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.