GB32 Zhongdu

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

GB32 (Zhongdu, “Zhongdu”) is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the lateral aspect of the thigh, 5 cun superior to the popliteal crease, in a palpable depression between the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris muscles. This is 2 cun inferior to Fengshi (GB31). It expels wind and cold, dispels dampness, soothes the sinews, alleviates pain, and resolves numbness.

Location

On the lateral aspect of the thigh, 5 cun superior to the popliteal crease, in a palpable depression between the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris muscles. This is 2 cun inferior to Fengshi (GB31).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 2.5 cun.

TCM functions

Expels wind and cold, dispels dampness, soothes the sinews, alleviates pain, and resolves numbness..

Indications

Cold qi lodging between the muscles, pain that travels up and down the leg, numbness and painful obstruction of the sinews (bi-syndrome), hemiplegia, flaccidity and weakness of the leg (wei syndrome), hip pain..

Clinical notes

Zhongdu is a key local point on the Gallbladder channel for treating disorders of the lateral thigh. It is particularly effective for pain, numbness, and motor impairment resulting from wind, cold, and damp obstruction, such as in sciatica or iliotibial band syndrome. Its ability to treat both pain that moves up and down the leg and generalized numbness makes it a versatile choice for various lower limb channel pathologies.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB32 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB32 located?

GB32 (Zhongdu) is located on the lateral aspect of the thigh, 5 cun superior to the popliteal crease, in a palpable depression between the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris muscles. This is 2 cun inferior to Fengshi (GB31).

What is GB32 used for?

GB32 expels wind and cold, dispels dampness, soothes the sinews, alleviates pain, and resolves numbness. Common clinical indications include cold qi lodging between the muscles, pain that travels up and down the leg, numbness and painful obstruction of the sinews (bi-syndrome), hemiplegia, flaccidity and weakness of the leg (wei syndrome), hip pain.

How is GB32 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 2.5 cun.

Which meridian is GB32 on?

GB32 is a point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyáng Dǎnjīng).

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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.