Spleen 5 (SP 5) Shang Qiu — Shang Hill

This is the Jing-River and Metal point of the Spleen channel. As the sedation point it strengthens the Spleen, resolves dampness and benefits the ankle.

Spleen 5 (SP 5) Shang Qiu 商丘 — Shang Hill

Location

On the medial aspect of the ankle, in the depression distal and inferior to the medial malleolus, midway between the prominence of the medial malleolus and the tuberosity of the navicular bone.

Anatomy

Anterior and inferior to the medial malleolus; the medial malleolar branches and the great saphenous vein; the medial branch of the superficial peroneal nerve and the saphenous nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Strengthens the Spleen and resolves dampness
  • Calms the spirit
  • Benefits the ankle

Indications

Abdominal distension, borborygmus and diarrhoea, constipation, jaundice, sluggishness and heaviness of the body, and pain of the ankle.

Needling

0.3-0.5 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With SP-9 to resolve dampness; with ST-36 for digestive disorders.

Classical Text References

The Jing-River (Metal) point and sedation point of the Spleen.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid the great saphenous vein.

Latest Research

Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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PubMed research

Acupuncture Shows Sustained Benefits for Chronic Daily Headache Prevention in Adults, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Acupuncture): Utility of Acupuncture Therapy for Adult Chronic Daily Headache Prophylaxis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. - Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2026.