Zhongdu GB32: Nomenclature, Location, Functions, Indications

Nomenclature:

Zhong: middle         Du: small ditch
Zhongdu is in between the tendons at the lateral aspect of the thigh, as if in a ditch.
Point: GB32
Chinese Name: 中渎
Name: Zhongdu
English Name/Meaning: Middle Ditch
Pinyin: zhōng dú
Han Geul 한글: jung dok 중독
Romaji: chū toku?
Vietnamese: Trung độc

Location:

On the lateral aspect of the thigh, 2 cun inferior to Fengchi (GB31) or 5 cun superior to the popliteal crease, between vastus lateralis and biceps femoris.

Functions of Zhongdu:

• Dispels wind and cold.
• Relax sinew and invigorates channels.
• Treats atrophy syndromes (Wei syndrome).

Indications:

Pain and soreness of the thigh and knee, numbness and weakness of the lower limbs, hemiplegia.

Method:

• Perpendicular or slightly posteriorly oblique insertion 1to 2 cun.
• Oblique insertion, directed proximally or distally, 1.5 to 2.5 cun.

Remarks:

• Weaker than Fengshi(GB31), mostly used for local disorders.
• Alternate point to GB31.