SP4 Gōngsūn

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

SP4 (Gōngsūn, “Gōngsūn”) is the Luo-Connecting point point of the Spleen Channel Meridian. It is located on the medial aspect of the foot, in the depression distal and inferior to the base of the first metatarsal bone, at the junction of the red and white skin, 1 cun posterior to the metatarsophalangeal joint of the great toe. It regulates the Spleen and Stomach, harmonizes the Middle Jiao, resolves dampness, calms the spirit, and regulates the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel).

Location

On the medial aspect of the foot, in the depression distal and inferior to the base of the first metatarsal bone, at the junction of the red and white skin, 1 cun posterior to the metatarsophalangeal joint of the great toe.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion, 0.6 to 1.2 cun.

TCM functions

Regulates the Spleen and Stomach, harmonizes the Middle Jiao, resolves dampness, calms the spirit, and regulates the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel)..

Indications

Abdominal distention, borborygmus, abdominal pain, cutting pain in the intestines, cholera, vomiting, poor appetite, indigestion, drum-like abdominal distention, mania, vexation of the heart, excessive thirst, insomnia, head and face swelling, heart pain, phlegm and drool obstruction, pain in the chest, pain in the hypochondriac region, postpartum blood dizziness, bloody stools from intestinal wind, anal prolapse, qi obstruction, food stagnation, accumulation lumps, infantile food accumulation, infantile diarrhea, malaria with heart pain, stomach cold, spleen cold..

Luo-Connecting pointConfluent point of the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel)

Clinical notes

As the Luo-connecting point of the Spleen and the confluent point of the Chong Mai, Gongsun is a primary point for disorders of the digestive system and their connection to the Heart and chest. It is classically indicated for both excess conditions like acute abdominal pain and cholera, and deficiency conditions like bloating and poor appetite. Its connection to the Chong Mai makes it essential for treating gynecological issues and harmonizing rebellious Qi that affects the chest and heart, often paired with PC6 (Neiguan) for this purpose.

On the Spleen Channel channel

SP4 is one of 21 points on the Spleen Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is SP4 located?

SP4 (Gōngsūn) is located on the medial aspect of the foot, in the depression distal and inferior to the base of the first metatarsal bone, at the junction of the red and white skin, 1 cun posterior to the metatarsophalangeal joint of the great toe.

What is SP4 used for?

SP4 regulates the Spleen and Stomach, harmonizes the Middle Jiao, resolves dampness, calms the spirit, and regulates the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel). Common clinical indications include abdominal distention, borborygmus, abdominal pain, cutting pain in the intestines, cholera, vomiting, poor appetite, indigestion, drum-like abdominal distention, mania, vexation of the heart, excessive thirst, insomnia, head and face swelling, heart pain, phlegm and drool obstruction, pain in the chest, pain in the hypochondriac region, postpartum blood dizziness, bloody stools from intestinal wind, anal prolapse, qi obstruction, food stagnation, accumulation lumps, infantile food accumulation, infantile diarrhea, malaria with heart pain, stomach cold, spleen cold.

How is SP4 needled?

Perpendicular insertion, 0.6 to 1.2 cun.

Which meridian is SP4 on?

SP4 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.