Stomach 38 (ST 38) Tiao Kou — Ribbon Opening

This point, on the lower leg, activates the channel and is the empirical distal point for frozen shoulder (often needled through towards UB-57).

Stomach 38 (ST 38) Tiao Kou 條口 — Ribbon Opening

Location

On the anterior lower leg, 8 cun inferior to ST-35, one finger-breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia (midway between ST-35 and ST-41).

Anatomy

On tibialis anterior; the anterior tibial artery and vein; the lateral sural cutaneous nerve and the deep peroneal nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Activates the channel and benefits the shoulder (empirical point for frozen shoulder)
  • Benefits the lower leg

Indications

Frozen shoulder, pain and weakness of the leg and foot, and atrophy and motor impairment of the lower limb.

Needling

1.0-1.5 cun perpendicular, or threaded towards UB-57 for frozen shoulder.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

Needled with strong stimulation while the patient mobilises the shoulder for frozen shoulder.

Classical Text References

The empirical distal point for frozen shoulder.

Cautions & Contraindications

None specific.

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.