ACUPUNCTURE POINT ‘HE GU’

This is a picture of the acupuncture point called He Gu (“Joining Valley”) which in the west is known as Large Intestine 4. It is understood in traditional Chinese medicine to have many potential uses and is one of the most commonly-used points. Insertion of the needle here normally elicits a strong sensation that is described by patients in different ways. Some say that it feels like a mild electric shock, others like a cramping sensation. Some people just feel a mild tingle or a dull ache in the area.

The traditional uses of this point include treatment of chronic or acute pain, headaches, dental problems, constipation and digestive upsets, respiratory infections, and regulating low energy.

It is also one of the points that is indicated for inducing labour in overdue mothers. In this respect, it is also one of the points that is contra-indicated in all other stages of pregnancy.