SP11 Jīmén

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

SP11 (Jīmén, “Jīmén”) is an acupuncture point on the Spleen Channel Meridian. It is located on the medial aspect of the thigh, superior to the medial epicondyle of the femur, in a palpable depression over the femoral artery between the sartorius and vastus medialis muscles. The classics place it on the 'fish belly' (belly of the vastus medialis) where a pulsation is felt, between tendons. It regulates urination, clears heat, and resolves dampness from the lower jiao.

Location

On the medial aspect of the thigh, superior to the medial epicondyle of the femur, in a palpable depression over the femoral artery between the sartorius and vastus medialis muscles. The classics place it on the 'fish belly' (belly of the vastus medialis) where a pulsation is felt, between tendons.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.5 cun, avoiding the femoral artery. The artery should be palpated and displaced laterally before needling.

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TCM functions

Regulates urination, clears heat, and resolves dampness from the lower jiao..

Indications

Urinary retention, difficult urination, incontinence, enuresis, inguinal swelling and pain, pain in the groin..

Clinical notes

Jīmén is a key local point for disorders of the groin and genitourinary system. Its classical indications focus almost exclusively on regulating urination, treating both retention (difficulty, blockage) and incontinence (enuresis, leakage). It is also indicated for local issues like inguinal swelling and pain, reflecting its location on the channel pathway.

On the Spleen Channel channel

SP11 is one of 21 points on the Spleen Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

SP7SP8SP9SP10SP12SP13SP14SP15

Frequently asked questions

Where is SP11 located?

SP11 (Jīmén) is located on the medial aspect of the thigh, superior to the medial epicondyle of the femur, in a palpable depression over the femoral artery between the sartorius and vastus medialis muscles. The classics place it on the 'fish belly' (belly of the vastus medialis) where a pulsation is felt, between tendons.

What is SP11 used for?

SP11 regulates urination, clears heat, and resolves dampness from the lower jiao. Common clinical indications include urinary retention, difficult urination, incontinence, enuresis, inguinal swelling and pain, pain in the groin.

How is SP11 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.5 cun, avoiding the femoral artery. The artery should be palpated and displaced laterally before needling. Caution: Adjacent to the femoral arter — palpate and avoid the vessel; do not needle into a pulsating artery. The Zhen Jiu Da Cheng lists Jīmén in its 'Forbidden Needle Points Song', suggesting caution is warranted. Modern anatomy confirms the proximity of the femoral artery and nerve, which must be avoided.

Which meridian is SP11 on?

SP11 is a point on the Spleen Channel Meridian (Zú Tài Yīn Pí Jīng).

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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.