What is ST37?
ST37 (Shangqu Xu) is an acupoint belonging to the Stomach channel of Foot-Yangming. As the name suggests, it means “above the great hollow.” It is an important acupoint for treating diseases of the small and large intestines, particularly regulating the motility function of the digestive system to promote intestinal health.
How to Find the Exact Location
Step 1: Locate ST36 (Zusanli), which is found approximately 4 cun (about three finger-widths) below the knee on the outer front of the leg.
Step 2: Move down 1 more cun (about one thumb-width) below ST36.
Step 3: Find the area just outside the tibia (shinbone), where the muscles of the anterior leg form a depression—this is ST37. When pressed, you should feel slight pain or tenderness at the correct location.
How to Apply Acupressure
Preparation: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and relax your legs.
Step 1: Contact the ST37 acupoint with the pad of your thumb, applying pressure perpendicular to the surface.
Step 2: Apply pressure gradually, starting with light pressure and gradually increasing the strength.
Step 3: Maintain pressure for 3-5 seconds while breathing deeply.
Step 4: Slowly release the pressure and lift your thumb.
Repetition: Repeat the same procedure 10-15 times on each leg.
Key Benefits
- Improved diarrhea: Normalizes excessive intestinal motility and effectively relieves diarrhea symptoms.
- Constipation relief: Promotes peristaltic movement of the intestines for smoother bowel movements.
- Abdominal pain relief: Reduces cramping pain and inflammation-related abdominal discomfort in the digestive system.
- Enhanced digestive function: Improves intestinal immune function to enhance overall digestive health.
- Reduced abdominal bloating: Alleviates abdominal discomfort and bloating caused by gas.
When Should You Apply Acupressure?
Best timing: 2-3 times daily. Pressure is most effective when applied on an empty stomach in the morning and 2 hours after evening meals. Applying pressure when intestinal peristalsis is most active is particularly beneficial.
Recommended situations: Apply pressure when experiencing digestive discomfort, difficulty with bowel movements, abdominal bloating, or gas accumulation to help relieve symptoms. For regular maintenance, it is best to apply pressure at the same time each day.
Precautions
Situations to avoid: If you have acute abdominal pain or serious abdominal disease, always obtain a medical diagnosis from a healthcare professional before applying pressure. Avoid the area if there are wounds or inflammation on the skin.
Cautions during pressure application: Excessive pressure can cause muscle damage or bruising, so maintain moderate pressure. If you are pregnant or have a serious medical condition, consult with a healthcare professional. Avoid cold foods and overeating within 2 hours after applying pressure.
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