Governing Vessel 8 (DU 8) Jin Suo — Sinew Contraction

This point, in the spine, spreads Liver qi, extinguishes wind and relaxes the sinews, and is used for spasm and epilepsy.

Governing Vessel 8 (DU 8) Jin Suo 筋縮 — Sinew Contraction

Location

On the back, in the depression below the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9).

Anatomy

On the supraspinous and interspinous ligaments; the ninth intercostal arterial branch; the medial branch of the dorsal ramus of the ninth thoracic nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Extinguishes wind and relaxes the sinews
  • Spreads Liver qi and calms the spirit

Indications

Epilepsy and convulsions, muscular spasm and contraction, stiffness and pain of the back, and mania.

Needling

0.5-1.0 cun, oblique upward insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With LV-3 and GB-34 for spasm and contraction of the sinews.

Classical Text References

A point of the Du Mai, classically for spasm and epilepsy.

Cautions & Contraindications

Needle obliquely; the spinal cord lies deep.

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.

Check Also

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.