Dubi (ST35) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

What is Dubi?

Dubi (ST35) is an acupoint on the Stomach meridian. It is an important acupoint that governs the health of the knee joint, and is particularly effective in relieving knee pain, leg pain, leg weakness, and numbness in the legs.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Sit comfortably and extend both legs, then gently bend your knees.
Step 2: Feel the area below and to the outside of the kneecap (patella).
Step 3: Find the depression (indentation) below and to the outside of the kneecap. This is the location of Dubi.
Step 4: Below the outer edge of the tibia, when the knee is bent, the depression that appears is the location of Dubi. It is located at the upper part of the calf muscle.

Acupressure Method

Basic Acupressure Technique:
1. Sit comfortably with your legs extended or gently bent.
2. Locate the acupoint using the pad of your thumb or middle finger (not the nail).
3. Press vertically, beginning with light pressure.
4. Gradually increase the pressure and hold for 3-5 seconds.
5. Slowly release the pressure, rest for 1 second, and repeat.
6. It is recommended to repeat 10-15 times per session.
Frequency: 2-3 times per day, preferably morning and evening.

Key Benefits

• Knee pain relief: Rapidly improves knee arthritis, patellar pain, and pain near the knee.
• Leg pain improvement: Relieves calf pain, pain throughout the leg, and reduces muscle stiffness.
• Relief from leg weakness: Alleviates leg weakness, numbness, and cramping while restoring leg strength.
• Promotes blood circulation: Improves blood circulation in the lower body and enhances overall leg health.
• Digestive health: As an acupoint on the Stomach meridian, it also helps improve digestive function.

When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal time: Acupressure is most effective between 3 PM and 5 PM (when the Stomach meridian is most active). However, it is also beneficial to apply it after waking in the morning and before bed at night.
Optimal situations: Apply acupressure when your knee hurts, when your legs feel numb, after prolonged standing or sitting, or when experiencing leg fatigue after exercise. It is even more effective when combined with stretching.

Precautions

• If there is swelling or inflammation in the knee, start with light pressure.
• If pregnant, consult with a professional before applying acupressure.
• After knee surgery, wait for sufficient recovery time before applying acupressure.
• If pain is severe, do not force acupressure; consult with a professional (acupuncturist or traditional medicine practitioner).
• Excessive acupressure on the same area may cause skin damage, so maintain appropriate pressure intensity.
• Avoid applying pressure to infected wounds or areas with skin conditions.