DU1 Changqiang means 'Long Strong'

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

DU1 (Changqiang, “Changqiang means 'Long Strong'”) is the Luo-Connecting point of the Governing Vessel point of the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the midline, in the depression located between the tip of the coccyx and the anus. The point is located with the patient in a prone or knee-chest position. It regulates the lower orifices, treats hemorrhoids and prolapse, calms the spirit, activates the channel and alleviates pain, clears damp-heat from the lower jiao.

Location

On the midline, in the depression located between the tip of the coccyx and the anus. The point is located with the patient in a prone or knee-chest position.

Needling

With the patient in the knee-chest or lateral recumbent position, needle obliquely upwards along the anterior surface of the coccyx, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Avoid puncturing the rectum.

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TCM functions

Regulates the lower orifices, treats hemorrhoids and prolapse, calms the spirit, activates the channel and alleviates pain, clears damp-heat from the lower jiao..

Indications

Hemorrhoids (five types), bloody stools from intestinal wind, chronic hemorrhoids, anal fistula (lower leakage), ulceration and erosion of the perineum, diarrhea, difficult defecation, difficult urination, the five types of urinary dysfunction (lin), infantile fright epilepsy with convulsions, vomiting blood, fright and fear with seminal emission, deviated vision, madness, mania, spinal rigidity, lower back and spinal pain, head heaviness, infantile fontanel collapse, infantile convulsions with spasms, infantile vomiting and diarrhea, infantile fright and fear, infantile strabismus..

Luo-Connecting point of the Governing Vessel

Clinical notes

Changqiang is the primary distal point for all disorders of the anus, including various types of hemorrhoids, fistulas, prolapse, and pain. Its classical indications also highlight a strong connection to the spine for treating rigidity and pain, and to the spirit for conditions like mania and epilepsy, reflecting its role as the origin of the Du Mai which enters the brain. The point's function in regulating the lower orifices extends to both urination and defecation.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU1 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU1 located?

DU1 (Changqiang) is located on the midline, in the depression located between the tip of the coccyx and the anus. The point is located with the patient in a prone or knee-chest position.

What is DU1 used for?

DU1 regulates the lower orifices, treats hemorrhoids and prolapse, calms the spirit, activates the channel and alleviates pain, clears damp-heat from the lower jiao. Common clinical indications include hemorrhoids (five types), bloody stools from intestinal wind, chronic hemorrhoids, anal fistula (lower leakage), ulceration and erosion of the perineum, diarrhea, difficult defecation, difficult urination, the five types of urinary dysfunction (lin), infantile fright epilepsy with convulsions, vomiting blood, fright and fear with seminal emission, deviated vision, madness, mania, spinal rigidity, lower back and spinal pain, head heaviness, infantile fontanel collapse, infantile convulsions with spasms, infantile vomiting and diarrhea, infantile fright and fear, infantile strabismus.

How is DU1 needled?

With the patient in the knee-chest or lateral recumbent position, needle obliquely upwards along the anterior surface of the coccyx, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Avoid puncturing the rectum. Caution: Moxibustion is contraindicated for head sores as the 'qi of the葶藶 (lepidium seed, used in some moxa preparations) can enter' (Zi Sheng Jing). When performing moxibustion for hemorrhoids, protect the surrounding flesh (e.g., with a bamboo shield). It is advised to perform moxibustion during cool weather and to avoid 'toxic substances' (Zi Sheng Jing).

Which meridian is DU1 on?

DU1 is a point on the Governing Vessel Meridian (Dū Mài).

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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.