SP16 Abdominal Sorrow

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

SP16 (Fuai, “Abdominal Sorrow”) is an acupuncture point on the Spleen Channel Meridian. It is located on the upper abdomen, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus and 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, inferior to the costal margin. It warms the Middle Jiao, regulates the intestines, resolves Damp-Heat, and alleviates abdominal pain.

Location

On the upper abdomen, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus and 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, inferior to the costal margin.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution: deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of puncturing the liver or large intestine.

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TCM functions

Warms the Middle Jiao, regulates the intestines, resolves Damp-Heat, and alleviates abdominal pain..

Indications

Abdominal pain, indigestion from cold in the middle, pus and blood in the stool, periumbilical pain that rushes to the heart, diarrhea with cold knees, dysentery..

Clinical notes

Fuai is a significant local point for a variety of intestinal disorders, particularly those characterized by pain, cold, and dysentery. Its name, 'Abdominal Sorrow,' aptly describes its utility for severe digestive distress. It is especially indicated for conditions like dysentery with pus and blood, or chronic diarrhea stemming from cold and deficiency in the Middle Jiao.

On the Spleen Channel channel

SP16 is one of 21 points on the Spleen Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

SP12SP13SP14SP15SP17SP18SP19SP20

Frequently asked questions

Where is SP16 located?

SP16 (Fuai) is located on the upper abdomen, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus and 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, inferior to the costal margin.

What is SP16 used for?

SP16 warms the Middle Jiao, regulates the intestines, resolves Damp-Heat, and alleviates abdominal pain. Common clinical indications include abdominal pain, indigestion from cold in the middle, pus and blood in the stool, periumbilical pain that rushes to the heart, diarrhea with cold knees, dysentery.

How is SP16 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution: deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of puncturing the liver or large intestine. Caution: Overlies abdominal organs (liver/spleen/kidney/gallbladder) — avoid deep perpendicular insertion; risk of organ puncture. The Zhen Jiu Da Cheng includes Fuai in its 'Forbidden Moxibustion Points Song', and the Ming Tang Jiu Jing also states not to use moxibustion on this point.

Which meridian is SP16 on?

SP16 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.