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Fengmen (BL-12), “Wind Gate”, on the upper back, is a principal point for expelling wind and releasing the exterior. It is classically used to prevent and treat the common cold.
Location
On the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).
Anatomy
On the trapezius and rhomboid, over the erector spinae; the medial branches of the posterior intercostal arteries; the dorsal rami of the thoracic nerves.
Actions & Functions
- Expels wind and releases the exterior
- Disperses and descends Lung qi (cough)
- Strengthens the defensive qi (prevents colds)
Indications
Common cold, cough and fever, stiff neck and upper back pain, and nasal congestion.
Needling
0.5-0.7 cun, oblique insertion towards the spine.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion - classically moxa'd to prevent colds.
Point Combinations
With BL-13 and LU-7 for cough and colds; with DU-14 for fever.
Classical Text References
A meeting point with the Du Mai; the chief point of the back for wind.
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep perpendicular insertion risks pneumothorax; needle obliquely.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.