LI-4 – Hegu (合谷)

Junction Valley

Meridian: Large Intestine Meridian

Location

On the dorsum of the hand, between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately at the midpoint of the 2nd metacarpal

Needling technique

Depth: 0.5-1 cun (10-20 mm)
Direction: Perpendicular or slightly oblique towards proximal

Indications

Headache, migraine, facial pain, nasal congestion, toothache, sore throat, stress, general pain, labor induction

Contraindications

CONTRAINDICATED IN PREGNANCY (can induce uterine contractions). Avoid in patients with bleeding disorders.