It’s almost a cliché to criticize the Standard American Diet—oily, processed, and nutrient-poor. Add in our overreliance on antibiotics, and it’s easy to see how we’re putting excessive stress on our bodies, making life tough for our digestive and immune systems.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), however, offers an alternative perspective—and a tool—that addresses both issues through one acupoint on your ankle: Shang Mound (Shang Qiu, SP5). It’s not magic but a choice grounded in centuries of practice. If you’ve ever wanted a more natural approach to better health, this might become your new favorite acupoint.
An Ancient Point With Modern Relevance
Shang Qiu was first recorded in the “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”), one of the foundational texts of acupuncture. It’s the Jing-River point of the Spleen meridian, which in TCM is a spot where the flow of qi (vital energy) becomes deeper and more forceful. Jing-River points are known for their ability to expel external pathogens. In the case of Shang Qiu, its superpower is clearing “dampness” and promoting proper blood and energy circulation.
“Dampness” in TCM isn’t a vague term—it describes a cluster of problematic internal conditions. It refers to excessive moisture in the body that causes sluggishness, digestive issues, bloating, and loose stools. It can be triggered by environmental humidity and poor dietary habits—especially greasy, fried foods. With its powerful connection to the spleen, stomach, and lungs, Shang Qiu plays a key role in helping the body process and eliminate this dampness before it leads to deeper problems.
What Shang Qiu Can Do for You
Because of its Jing-River designation and connection to the Spleen meridian, Shang Qiu has a few standout functions. First, its ability to clear dampness from the body makes it useful in treating symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, or a heavy sensation in the limbs.
Second, Shang Qiu helps move blood and qi, which, in TCM terms, allows it to reduce inflammation. The spleen, according to TCM theory, is responsible for moving blood. When activated, Shang Qiu can help direct the body’s resources to sites of inflammation, deliver fresh energy, and move waste products toward the digestive organs to be expelled. Think of it as a holistic version of an antibiotic—body-wide in effect.
Scientific Studies Back-Up Role in Physical Recovery
Recent research has examined how acupuncture can address symptoms of ankle sprains. One study analyzed 201 clinical articles over 10 years and identified Shang Qiu as one of the top 10 most-used acupoints for ankle sprains. While it didn’t take center stage in the final analysis, it showed up consistently in treatment combinations, especially when swelling and meridian (energy pathway) imbalance were present. This supports the TCM principle that meridians treat issues along their path—in this case, the Spleen meridian flowing upward from the foot toward the ankle.
This also highlights a broader benefit of Shang Qiu: it doesn’t just help with digestive and internal issues—it has musculoskeletal relevance too.
How to Locate and Activate Shang Qiu
You’ll find Shang Qiu on the inner ankle, in a small depression halfway between the bony bump and the highest point of the navicular bone—the boat-shaped bone at the top of the foot. Press gently along the midpoint area, and you’ll likely find a spot slightly tender or sore to the touch—that’s your point.
To activate Shang Qiu
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patches: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid stimulating this point if you have an injury or open wound in the area. If you’re using herbal patches, opt for natural ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin prone to irritation.
A Useful Addition to Your Self-Care Practices
Whether your digestion is feeling off after a greasy meal or you’re dealing with low-grade inflammation that just won’t go away, Shang Qiu offers a holistic, side-effect-free support rooted in thousands of years of wisdom.
Keep Shang Qiu in mind during barbecue-heavy months or when that juicy turkey hits the table. While it is not a license to binge, it is an invitation to support your body naturally.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 7 June 2025
