- SP-5 Shangqiu is the main one to use. It expels Dampness and, being the River point, it
affects joints. It can be used as a general distal point for knee pain, irrespective of the
channel involved. - G.B.-40 Qiuxu is used as a distal point if the pain is along the Gall Bladder channel.
- ST-41 Jiexi is used as a distal point if the pain occurs along the Stomach channel.
Local Points
As for local points, it is best to discuss the points according to the area of pain.
Pain Above the Knee
See Figure 23.13(468). This usually affects the Stomach channel and there is some swelling
indicating retention of Dampness. The main point to use is:
- ST-34 Liangqiu is the main one to use. It is the Accumulation point of the Stomach
channel and, as such, it is a good point to stop pain and remove obstructions from the
channel. The use of warming needle is very effective.
Pain on the Lateral Side
See Figure 23.14(469). Pain in this area affects the Stomach or Gall Bladder channels. It is
usually associated with stiffness of the knee and difficulty in bending. The main points to use
are:
- ST-36 Zusanli is the main one to use. Besides all its other functions, it expels Dampness
from the knee. - G.B.-34 Yanglingquan is the Gathering point for Sinews and it is therefore very
important to use if the knee is stiff. - G.B.-33 Xiyangguan is an useful adjacent point to use which also relaxes the tendons.
Pain on the Inner Side
See Figure 23.15(470). Pain in this area involves the Spleen or Liver channel. In chronic cases
there is often a swelling in this area, especially in women. The main points to use are: