Yanggu (SI5) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Method

What is Yanggu?

Yanggu (陽谷) is the 5th acupoint of the Small Intestine meridian (SI), and is one of the important acupoints highly regarded in traditional Korean medicine. “Yang” means brightness, and “gu” means valley. Located on the ulnar side of the wrist, it helps promote qi and blood circulation and alleviates various conditions.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Extend your hand forward and look at the ulnar side of the wrist (the pinky finger side).
Step 2: Find the bone that can be felt on the back of the wrist (the ulnar styloid process).
Step 3: The depression between that bone and the wrist bone (the triquetrum) is Yanggu.
Step 4: The exact location is the point where you feel a soreness when you gently press with your finger.

Acupressure Method

Basic Acupressure Method:
1. Sit in a comfortable position and relax your wrist.
2. Slowly press the Yanggu area with the thumb of the opposite hand.
3. Press firmly for 3-5 seconds and then slowly release the pressure.
4. Repeat this 10-15 times.
Enhanced Acupressure Method: When pain is severe, it is more effective to press firmly for about 1-2 minutes while massaging in a circular motion.

Main Effects

• Wrist pain: By promoting qi and blood circulation around the wrist, it accelerates recovery from chronic wrist pain and sprains.
• Tinnitus: Alleviates ringing in the ears and helps improve hearing.
• Toothache: Effective in alleviating toothache and gum disease through meridians on both sides.
• Migraine: Enhances mental clarity and alleviates migraine symptoms.
• Elbow pain: Helps improve elbow pain by regulating the meridians of the upper limbs.

When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal Time: It can be done anytime during your free time, but it is especially effective when applied between 1-3 PM (when the Small Intestine meridian is most active).
Recommended Situations:
– When you feel wrist pain
– When you feel your ears ringing
– When you have toothache
– When your wrist feels stiff after computer work
– When you have physical discomfort due to stress

Precautions

Situations to Avoid:
– If pregnant, consult with a healthcare professional before proceeding.
– Avoid acupressure immediately after trauma or fracture.
– If there are cuts or inflammation on the skin, avoid that area.

Precautions When Applying Acupressure:
– Do not apply excessive force when pressing; stimulation to the level of a tingling sensation is appropriate.
– If symptoms are severe or do not improve, consult a traditional Korean medicine practitioner or physician.
– It is best not to apply acupressure within 30 minutes after eating.
– Applying acupressure 30 minutes before bedtime may interfere with good sleep.