Extra Points: Lower Extremities (EX-LE)

Xiyan EX-LE-5

Chinese: 膝眼

Pinyin: Xī Yǎn

Location

This is a group of 2 points, composed of Dubi ST-35 and Neixiyan EX-LE-4. Both are located inferior to the patella, medial and lateral to the patellar ligament. 

Dubi ST-35 is the lateral one, while Neixiyan EX-LE-4 is the medial one. 

How to locate

It is recommended to flex the knee to better locate the point. 

There are two eyes of knee located on the level of the lower border of the patella, lateral and medial to the patellar ligament. 

The medial one is Neixiyan EX-LE-4. The lateral one is Dubi ST-35. 

Main actions

  1. Expels Wind-Damp
  2. Reduces swelling and pain

Indications

Knee pain Weak knees Knee swollen Knee numbness Knee stiffness Lower limb numbness Lower limbs atrophy

Needling

For the medial eye of the knee (Neixiyan EX-LE-4): 0.5–1 cun vertically or obliquely towards
the lateral eye of the knee.

For the lateral eye of the knee (Dubi ST-35): 0.5–1 cun vertically or obliquely towards the medial eye of the knee.

Caution: Do not needle too deeply to avoid intra-articular puncture. 

Commentary for Xiyan EX-LE-5

This is a group of two points, composed of Neixiyan EX-LE-4 and Dubi ST-35.

They are very important local points in treating all types of knee disorders, regardless of being Deficiency or Excess, Heat or Cold patterns. 

On top of that, they also reduce discomfort around knee joint.