Yang Motility Vessel 阳跷脉

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

Yang Motility Vessel (Yángqiāo Mài, 阳跷脉) is one of the eight extraordinary vessels in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yang in polarity. This vessel governs the movement and agility of the body, particularly the lower limbs and the lateral aspects.

Chinese阳跷脉
PinyinYángqiāo Mài
Groupextraordinary
Yin / YangYang
Master pointBL62
Coupled pointSI3

Channel pathway

The Yang Motility Vessel originates from the heel, specifically at BL62. It ascends along the lateral malleolus and the lateral aspect of the leg and thigh, reaching the posterior aspect of the shoulder. From there, it travels up the neck to the corner of the mouth, then ascends to the inner canthus where it meets the Bladder and Small Intestine channels. It continues over the forehead and enters the brain, terminating at the posterior aspect of the neck.

Physiology & functions

This vessel governs the movement and agility of the body, particularly the lower limbs and the lateral aspects. It regulates the opening and closing of the eyes and influences the motor function of the limbs. It also plays a role in maintaining balance and posture.

When the channel is disordered

Disorders of the Yang Motility Vessel often manifest as motor impairments, such as flaccidity or spasm of the lateral leg muscles, leading to difficulty walking or limping. Other symptoms include insomnia (due to inability to close the eyes fully), epilepsy, and pain along its pathway, particularly in the hip and lateral leg.

Key & command points

Frequently asked questions

What is the pathway of the Yang Motility Vessel?

The Yang Motility Vessel originates from the heel, specifically at BL62. It ascends along the lateral malleolus and the lateral aspect of the leg and thigh, reaching the posterior aspect of the shoulder. From there, it travels up the neck to the corner of the mouth, then ascends to the inner canthus where it meets the Bladder and Small Intestine channels. It continues over the forehead and enters the brain, terminating at the posterior aspect of the neck.

What does the Yang Motility Vessel do in TCM?

This vessel governs the movement and agility of the body, particularly the lower limbs and the lateral aspects. It regulates the opening and closing of the eyes and influences the motor function of the limbs. It also plays a role in maintaining balance and posture.

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.