Xialian Point (LI-8 / Lower Angle)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Xialian (LI-8 / Lower Angle). Learn its benefits for abdominal distension, pain, elbow arthritis, and weakness, plus classic combinations with Tianshu, Zhongwan, and Zusanli for digestive health.
Indications
Elbow arthritis, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, hyperactive bowel sounds (borborygmus), and weakness of the hand, elbow, and shoulder.
Precise Location
On the radial side of the dorsal forearm, on the line connecting Yangxi (LI-5) and Quchi (LI-11), 4 cun below the elbow crease.
Location Method
Turn the wrist sideways and flex the elbow. Press one hand against the opposite forearm, with the thumb at the elbow bend – the point is where the little finger falls. (Alternatively, measure 4 cun downward from the elbow crease along the line connecting Quchi and Yangxi; the point is where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.)
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead Xialian with the thumb. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Bring the index and middle fingers together and press vertically with the finger pads at the point for 1–3 minutes on each arm per session. Therapeutic actions: Regulates the stomach and intestines, unblocks the meridians and collaterals.
Compatibility
Abdominal distension: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25), Zhongwan (RN-12), Zusanli (ST-36), and Xialian (LI-8). Disease overview: Abdominal distension is a common digestive symptom, primarily caused by gastrointestinal flatulence, ascites from various causes, or abdominal tumors. Clinically common conditions causing gastrointestinal flatulence include aerophagia, acute gastric dilatation, pyloric obstruction, intestinal obstruction, intestinal paralysis, refractory constipation, hepatobiliary diseases, and certain systemic disorders. Late-stage pregnancy can also cause abdominal distension, but this is physiological. Massage sequence: First massage Tianshu (2 cun lateral to the umbilicus) for 2 minutes; then massage Zhongwan (4 cun above the umbilicus on the midline) for 1 minute; next scrape Zusanli for 1 minute; finally massage Xialian for 1 minute. Headache: Combine with Touwei (ST-8), Shenting (GV-24), and Xialian (LI-8). Toothache: Combine with Jiache (ST-6), Dicang (ST-4), and Xialian (LI-8).
Efficacy & Actions
This point is located on the hand, hence it is also called "Lower Hand Angle" (手下廉). It treats hypochondriac, chest, and lower abdominal pain, hemiplegia, febrile wind conditions, cold bi-syndrome with immobility, and dampness-cold bi-syndrome. For modern people, this point has another excellent effect – it helps regulate the stomach and intestines. Xialian belongs to the Large Intestine meridian and is paired with Shanglian (Upper Angle). It regulates the stomach and intestines, unblocks the meridians and collaterals. "Lian" means edge or angle – the point is located on the lower lateral border of the forearm, hence the name Xialian (Lower Angle).