As populations worldwide continue to age, the need for elder care rises—and so does the physical toll on caregivers. In the United States, the number of people providing family caregiving increased by roughly one-third over the past 15 years.
Interestingly, caregivers and those they care for often share a common issue: Their legs are usually the first to bear the brunt. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers an easy-to-use acupoint below the knee that targets leg issues directly. Known as Yin Mound Spring (Yin Ling Quan, SP9), it’s a practical tool every household should know about, especially where aging or physically demanding lifestyles are part of daily reality.
How the Spleen Helps With Fluid Management
First referenced in the classic “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”), Yin Ling Quan is classified as a He-Sea point—acupoints with a strong connection to their associated organ, in this case, the spleen, and the ability to regulate the flow of vital energy or qi if it becomes “rebellious” or flows in the wrong direction.
According to TCM’s Five Element theory, Yin Ling Quan belongs to the water element. Combine that with the spleen’s role in regulating blood, fluids, and nutrients, and you begin to understand its powerful therapeutic potential. Think of it as a drainage valve for the lower body—one that helps manage fluid retention and support proper circulation.
That’s why Yin Ling Quan is commonly used to reduce swelling and edema in the lower limbs. It’s also beneficial for people who sit for extended periods, such as those with limited mobility. It’s equally effective for people who spend hours on their feet, such as nurses or caregivers.
Yin Ling Quan is also often used to address urinary incontinence and diarrhea—common issues faced by elderly patients. This acupoint is frequently a key component of acupuncture treatment protocols for these conditions, which makes it particularly relevant for aging populations.
The benefits, however, don’t stop there. Located near the knee, the point follows the TCM principle that acupoints treat areas along their meridian pathway. As such, Yin Ling Quan is often used to ease pain on the inner side of the knee, especially when excess fluid buildup or damp conditions like rainy weather worsen the discomfort.
Another unique use of Yin Ling Quan involves calming the upward reversal of qi—helping relieve stabbing stomach pain with bloating or excessive gas.
Modern Research Supports the Classics
Modern studies have uncovered biological mechanisms behind ancient wisdom. One study on rats showed that electroacupuncture at Yin Ling Quan significantly increased blood flow to the spleen, supporting TCM’s claim that Yin Ling Quan is deeply connected to its relevant organ.
In a clinical study, acupuncture, including the Yin Ling Quan point, among others, was evaluated for its effectiveness in treating stress urinary incontinence in women. The participants were divided into three groups: one received acupuncture, another received biofeedback stimulation, and the third received a combination of both treatments. All participants also engaged in pelvic floor exercises.
While improvements in urinary control were observed across all groups, the group that received the combined treatment showed the most significant results, experiencing reduced leakage and enhanced quality of life. This highlights the real-world medical relevance of Yin Ling Quan.
How to Locate and Activate Yin Ling Quan
To locate Yin Ling Quan, start by finding the bony bump on the inside of your ankle. Then, slide your fingers up the inner edge of your shin bone until you reach a tender dip near the knee joint. That sore little pocket is Yin Ling Quan.
You can activate this point in several easy ways:
- 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, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid using this point if you have an injury or open wound near the knee. If you opt for herbal patches, choose gentle, natural ingredients—especially if you have sensitive skin.
A Simple Ritual for Overworked Legs
Yin Ling Quan is useful for anyone whose day includes physical strain or long hours on their feet. Whether you’re coming home from an all-day event, a nature hike, or a long work shift, stimulating this acupoint can be a way of saying “thank you” to your legs. Try it out and notice how your body responds—it’s a small act of self-care that can go a long way.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 11 June 2025
