"Du" (犢), calf, referring to the shape resembling the nostrils of a young calf. The point is located in the depression on both sides of patellar ligament at knee, similar to the nostrils of a calf. In Leijing Tuyi: "Located beneath patella, above tibial bone, in the depression of the large tendon, shaped like a calf's nose, hence the name." In Yizong jinjian: "Located beneath patella, above tibial bone in the depression, commonly called 'knee eye' (Xiyan (EX-LE5)). Additionally, another depression beside it is known as 'outer knee eye' (External Xiyan (EX-LE5))." Below the kneecap, The upper part of the cartilage bone is depressed, commonly known as Xiyan (EX-LE5). The other part of the depression has space on both sides and looks like a cow's nose. The one on the outside is also called "External Xiyan (EX-LE5)".

bubble_chart Location

Dubi (ST35) acupoint
(adapted from "Meridians and Acupoints")

At knee, in the depression on the outer side of patella and patellar ligament when knee is bent.

• Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing: "Beneath knee, above tibial bone, in the depression of a large tendon."
• Qianjin Yaofang: "At the upper edge of patella, along outer bone, at the flat point. Pressing here should reveal a joint-like feeling. Another interpretation is located at knee, near outer three bones, where the artery moves, pressing this spot should reveal a hollow sensation."
• Yixue Rumen: "At the knee, on the outer side of the large tendon in the depression." bubble_chart Anatomy Muscle: the medial side is patellar ligament. Nerve: lateral sural cutaneous nerve and articular branch of common peroneal nerve. Vessel: knee joint venous and arterial network. bubble_chart Manipulation Perpendicular insertion 1～1.5 cun. Direct moxibustion is prohibited, moxibustion with moxa stick for 10 to 15 minutes.
  bubble_chart Efficacy

  Dispel wind and dampness, benefit knee joint.

  • Classical: knee pain, beriberi, lower limb paralysis, Dubi swelling.
  • Modern: knee joint and surrounding soft tissue disorders.

  bubble_chart Combinations

  • Knee and below-knee disease: moxibustion is suitable for Dubi (ST35), Xiguan (LR7), Sanli, Yanglingquan (GB34).
  • Knee numbness: Dubi (ST35), Biguan (ST31), Yanglingquan (GB34).
  • Knee arthritis: Dubi (ST35), Liangqiu (ST34), Yanglingquan (GB34).