In the world of acupoints, some truly shine while others patiently await their time to dazzle. One useful yet often overlooked point is Yang Aid (Yang Fu, GB38). Though it may not dominate conversations about traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), its versatile benefits are worth learning about.
What’s particularly intriguing about Yang Fu is how it addresses a diverse array of concerns. While exploring its advantages may invite some curiosity about TCM theory, the insights uncovered could motivate you to give it a try right away.
Why Yang Fu Deserves More Recognition
Despite its relative obscurity, Yang Fu plays an important supporting role in many acupuncture treatment protocols. Its effectiveness can be attributed to three main factors. First, its location. Positioned on the ankle along the gallbladder meridian, this acupoint is particularly beneficial for addressing lower limb discomfort. It can help relieve numbness, restricted mobility, and knee joint inflammation.
The second reason is its unique nature as a Jing-River acupoint. Jing River points, including Yang Fu, are crucial in facilitating the smooth and steady flow of qi or vital energy along the meridian. Jing River points are also known for treating conditions affecting the lateral aspects of the body, making Yang Fu useful for issues such as lymph node swelling and discomfort in the limbs.
Thirdly, Yang Fu is linked to blood health through the gallbladder meridian’s connection to the liver, which governs blood in TCM. This association has led to its use in balancing fat content in the blood, which can be a helpful holistic addition to other ways of regulating blood cholesterol levels.
Science Confirms Yang Fu’s Role in Mobility Support
Modern medicine is exploring how Yang Fu and related acupoints can help improve mobility. Research investigating laser acupuncture on walking performance in older men with peripheral artery disease provides compelling evidence of this acupoint’s efficacy.
In a controlled study, patients were divided into two groups: one receiving standard pharmacological treatment and another receiving additional laser therapy at multiple acupoints, including Yang Fu, twice per week for five weeks.
Results showed a significant reduction in claudication or pain in the legs or arms while walking and an increase in the six-minute walking distance from 214 meters to 318 meters in the group receiving acupoint-targeted treatment. These findings highlight Yang Fu’s potential as a complementary therapy for those experiencing movement limitations due to vascular conditions.
How to Locate and Stimulate Yang Fu
Yang Fu is situated on the outer side of the lower leg. To find it:
- Start at the bony bump on the outer side of your ankle (the lateral malleolus).
- Measure five finger-widths upward along the leg. Your finger should land on the front part of the calf bone (fibula)
- Press gently in this area—if you find a slightly tender spot, you’ve located Yang Fu.
Activating this acupoint is simple and can be incorporated into daily self-care routines:
- Finger Pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage: Use your index finger or thumb to make small circular motions over the point for one to three minutes.
- Herbal Patches: Apply an herbal patch overnight for continuous stimulation.
- Advanced Techniques: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) delivered by a trained TCM professional can provide deeper therapeutic effects.
Important Considerations Before Using Yang Fu
While generally safe, Yang Fu should be avoided in specific circumstances:
- Injuries: Avoid applying pressure if there is bruising, swelling, or trauma in the area.
- Skin Sensitivity: If using herbal patches, opt for natural formulations to prevent irritation.
- Menstrual Cycle: Because of its connection to the liver meridian—which influences blood flow—it’s best not to over-stimulate Yang Fu during menstruation.
A Thoughtful Approach to Energy Flow and Self-Care
In TCM, the smooth movement of qi throughout the body is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Some acupoints provide immediate relief for specific symptoms, while others, like Yang Fu, work more subtly by regulating the energy flow along the meridian. Regularly stimulating this acupoint can offer benefits beyond what we immediately notice—sometimes addressing hidden imbalances.
Pay close attention to how your body responds to Yang Fu. If you experience an intense sensation when pressing this point, it may indicate an area in need of extra care. By giving it consistent attention, you can support your body’s energy pathways and promote better health in multiple.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 26 Mar 2025
