ST42 is the 42nd acupoint of the Stomach Meridian, located between the base of the second metatarsal bone and the intermediate cuneiform bone on the foot dorsum.

This location is also medically significant—it corresponds to the pulse point of the dorsal pedal artery. Therefore, you can confirm the exact location by finding where the pulse beats.

According to traditional medicine literature, ST42 directly activates stomach function and improves blood circulation around the face and mouth area.

Locating ST42 accurately accounts for 80% of effective acupressure. Follow these steps in order.

Step 1: Prepare Your Foot

Spread your toes slightly and look at the top surface of your foot. It’s generally most comfortable to sit and rest your foot on your lap.

Step 2: Find the Toe Bones

You’ll see the toe bones protruding on top of the foot. Find the shallow groove between the big toe bone and the second toe bone.

Step 3: Confirm the Pulse

When you place your finger in that groove and press gently, you’ll feel a pulse beating. This is ST42.

At first, try looking in a mirror or use your opposite hand to slowly explore the area. It may take 2-3 days to locate the exact point.

The correct acupressure technique makes all the difference in results. Stronger pressure is not necessarily better; the right intensity and rhythm matter most.

Preparation Phase

Sit or lie in a comfortable position. Make sure both your hands and feet are relaxed.

Acupressure Steps

1. Prepare your finger: Place the tip of your thumb or index finger (the part with fingerprints) on ST42.
2. Apply pressure: Slowly press vertically about 3-5mm. The pressure should produce slight discomfort (proper acupressure sensation).
3. Maintain pressure: Hold this position for 3-5 seconds. Continue breathing throughout.
4. Release pressure: Slowly remove your finger over 2 seconds. Do not pull away suddenly.
5. Repeat: Perform the above process 10-15 times. One complete acupressure session takes 5-7 minutes total.

Pressure Intensity Guidelines

• Too light: No sensation at all—increase pressure slightly
• Appropriate: Mild discomfort with a sense of fatigue relief—maintain this intensity
• Too strong: Sharp pain or bruising—reduce pressure

ST42 is effective because the Stomach Meridian has profound influence on digestion and facial structures. Let’s examine how it works for each symptom.

Improving Indigestion

ST42 promotes peristalsis of the stomach. With regular acupressure, food is digested more efficiently and moves into the intestines at a normalized rate.

Real experience: When applied 1-2 hours after eating, abdominal bloating often subsides within 1-2 hours. Evening acupressure particularly helps promote restful sleep.

Relieving Toothache

The Stomach Meridian regulates blood circulation around the face and mouth. When ST42 acupressure improves circulation, inflammation decreases and toothache subsides.

However, ST42 does not treat the underlying causes of toothache (cavities, periodontal disease). It only provides pain relief, so if pain persists, you must see a dentist.

Reducing Facial Swelling

Many cases of facial swelling result from poor digestion and water metabolism imbalance. When ST42 acupressure normalizes stomach function, fluid circulates healthily and swelling decreases.

Effect timing: With consistent application twice daily for about a week, you may notice your face appearing noticeably brighter.

Relieving Foot Pain and Fatigue

Heaviness or pain in the foot dorsum and ankle area is also related to the Stomach Meridian. As stagnant circulation improves, foot fatigue rapidly diminishes.

Recommended daily frequency: 1-2 times, 5-7 minutes per session

Ideally, practice once in the morning (or at lunch) and once in the evening. Avoid excessive frequency, as this can tire your feet.

Situations to Avoid

• Immediately after eating: Acupressure during active digestion may interfere with digestion. Wait at least 30 minutes before proceeding.
• When there are foot wounds: Acupressure may worsen inflammation. Practice only after wounds have completely healed.
• During acute inflammation: Avoid acupressure if your foot is visibly red, swollen, or warm to the touch.
• During extreme fatigue: When your body desperately needs rest, acupressure may be overstimulating.

Situations Requiring Professional Consultation

• If pregnant or possibly pregnant: While ST42 itself is generally safe, precise intensity control is needed. Consult a traditional medicine practitioner before practicing.
• Bleeding disorders: If you have a hemorrhagic condition, acupressure carries risk of internal bleeding.
• Serious chronic conditions: If you have diabetes, heart disease, or similar conditions, professional guidance is essential.
• Currently taking medications: Especially if taking anticoagulants, you must consult a healthcare provider first.

Warning Signs After Acupressure

If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop acupressure immediately and seek professional consultation.

• Dizziness or vertigo
• Persistent pain (lasting 3+ hours)
• Worsening foot swelling
• Skin discoloration or bruising
• Discomfort or abnormal sensations

Q. Are there other digestion-related acupoints besides ST42?

A. Yes, there are. The Stomach Meridian contains several acupoints that aid digestion.

• ST36 (Zusanli): Below the knee; considered the premier acupoint for digestion and immune strengthening
• PC6 (Neiguan): Inside the wrist; relieves digestive discomfort and nausea
• CV12 (Zhongwan): Above the navel; the central control point for the entire digestive system

Stimulating these acupoints together produces even greater effects. See our complete guide to major Stomach Meridian acupoints for more information.

Q. Do results appear immediately after acupressure?

A. Results vary by individual, but general patterns include:

• Immediate effects (same day): Relief of abdominal bloating, reduced foot heaviness—these may appear within 5-30 minutes
• Short-term effects (1 week): Improved digestion, reduced facial swelling—visible changes with consistent practice
• Long-term effects (1 month): Overall improvement in digestive constitution, sustained swelling relief

For best results, practice consistently for at least 1 week, preferably 3 weeks or longer.

Q. Is it safe to practice acupressure too frequently?

A. No, maintaining appropriate frequency is important.

• Recommended: 1-2 times daily, 5-7 minutes per session
• Avoid: Repeating more than 3 times daily, or practicing for longer than 30 minutes continuously
• Reason: Excessive stimulation can lead to skin damage, blood vessel damage, and increased fatigue

The belief that “more is better” is dangerous. Consistent, moderate stimulation is safest and most effective.

Q. Should I apply acupressure to ST42 immediately when experiencing severe toothache?

A. ST42 is only an auxiliary pain relief method. Follow this sequence:

• Step 1: Visit a dentist first. ST42 provides symptom relief only; it does not treat the underlying cause
• Step 2: After dental treatment, use ST42 acupressure during recovery to promote blood circulation
• Step 3: After maintaining oral health, apply acupressure 2-3 times weekly for prevention

Severe toothache cannot be resolved by acupressure alone.

Q. Should I apply acupressure to both feet?

A. Yes, applying to both feet is recommended.

• Reason: The human body is symmetrical. Pressing only one side may create imbalance
• Method: Alternate between feet, pressing each 10-15 times
• Duration: Total session takes 10-15 minutes

ST42 is a tool for activating your body’s natural healing capacity. It is not a medication and not a quick fix, but with consistent practice, you will experience definite changes.

Tips for success:

• Invest time in finding the exact location (this accounts for 80% of success)
• Practice consistently at appropriate intensity (stronger is not better)
• Continue for at least 1 week, ideally 3 weeks or longer (slow and steady wins)
• Consult a professional if you have any doubts (safety comes first)

When you experience improved digestion, a brighter complexion, and reduced toothache, you’ll gain not only better health management but also renewed confidence in your body.

Explore more acupoint information and self-care methods.