DU22 Fontanelle Meeting

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

DU22 (Xinhui, “Fontanelle Meeting”) is the Ghost point point of the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the midline of the head, in a palpable depression 1 cun posterior to DU21 (Qianding) and 2 cun posterior to the anterior hairline. This corresponds to the location of the anterior fontanelle in an infant. It clears the head and senses, dispels wind, calms the spirit, and resolves swelling.

Location

On the midline of the head, in a palpable depression 1 cun posterior to DU21 (Qianding) and 2 cun posterior to the anterior hairline. This corresponds to the location of the anterior fontanelle in an infant.

Needling

Transverse (subcutaneous) insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Needling is contraindicated if the fontanelle is not closed.

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TCM functions

Clears the head and senses, dispels wind, calms the spirit, and resolves swelling..

Indications

Headache, dizziness, vertigo, head wind, brain pain as if splitting (especially after excessive alcohol), cold sensation in the brain, head heaviness, head swelling, facial swelling, sudden facial swelling, red face, nosebleed, nasal congestion, inability to smell, scalp swelling, dandruff-like scalp condition, eye pain, upward-staring eyes, epilepsy, infantile convulsions, fright palpitations, not recognizing people, mania, temporarily falling then becoming rigid, aversion to wind and cold..

Ghost point

Clinical notes

Xinhui is a crucial point for disorders of the head and brain, particularly those involving a sensation of cold, pain, or dizziness. The classics emphasize its efficacy for headaches, whether from cold or heat, and its use in treating nasal issues like congestion and nosebleeds. Its location over the anterior fontanelle gives it a powerful ability to influence the brain, making it a key point for epilepsy and fright, but also demanding extreme caution in pediatric patients.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU22 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

DU18DU19DU20DU21DU23DU24DU25DU26

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU22 located?

DU22 (Xinhui) is located on the midline of the head, in a palpable depression 1 cun posterior to DU21 (Qianding) and 2 cun posterior to the anterior hairline. This corresponds to the location of the anterior fontanelle in an infant.

What is DU22 used for?

DU22 clears the head and senses, dispels wind, calms the spirit, and resolves swelling. Common clinical indications include headache, dizziness, vertigo, head wind, brain pain as if splitting (especially after excessive alcohol), cold sensation in the brain, head heaviness, head swelling, facial swelling, sudden facial swelling, red face, nosebleed, nasal congestion, inability to smell, scalp swelling, dandruff-like scalp condition, eye pain, upward-staring eyes, epilepsy, infantile convulsions, fright palpitations, not recognizing people, mania, temporarily falling then becoming rigid, aversion to wind and cold.

How is DU22 needled?

Transverse (subcutaneous) insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Needling is contraindicated if the fontanelle is not closed. Caution: It is strictly forbidden to needle this point on children under eight years of age whose fontanelle has not yet fused, as it could be fatal.

Which meridian is DU22 on?

DU22 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.