LR14 Cycle Gate

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

LR14 (Qī Mén, “Cycle Gate”) is the Front-Mu of Liver point of the Liver Channel of Foot Jueyin Meridian. It is located on the chest, directly below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline. It spreads Liver Qi, regulates Qi, alleviates pain.

Location

On the chest, directly below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Needling

Oblique or transverse insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution for pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Spreads Liver Qi, regulates Qi, alleviates pain.

Indications

Hypochondriac pain, abdominal distention, acid regurgitation, hiccup, mastitis, intercostal neuralgia.

Front-Mu of Liver

Clinical notes

As the Front-Mu point of the Liver, LR14 is the primary point for spreading Liver Qi and resolving stagnation in the chest and hypochondrium. It is best known for treating hypochondriac pain, distention, belching, and nausea due to Liver Qi stagnation, often associated with emotional stress. It also regulates the menstrual cycle and alleviates pain, making it useful for PMS and irregular menstruation. It is frequently used with LR3 to powerfully move Liver Qi and calm the spirit.

On the Liver Channel of Foot Jueyin channel

LR14 is one of 14 points on the Liver Channel of Foot Jueyin Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LR14 located?

LR14 (Qī Mén) is located on the chest, directly below the nipple, in the 6th intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

What is LR14 used for?

LR14 spreads Liver Qi, regulates Qi, alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include hypochondriac pain, abdominal distention, acid regurgitation, hiccup, mastitis, intercostal neuralgia.

How is LR14 needled?

Oblique or transverse insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution for pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

Which meridian is LR14 on?

LR14 is a point on the Liver Channel of Foot Jueyin Meridian (Zú Juéyīn Gānjīng).

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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.