ST10 Water Prominence

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

ST10 (Shuitu, “Water Prominence”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the neck, at the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with the lower border of the hyoid bone. It benefits throat and neck, alleviates pain.

Location

On the neck, at the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with the lower border of the hyoid bone.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution is advised to avoid the carotid artery and jugular vein.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

TCM functions

Benefits throat and neck, alleviates pain.

Indications

Sore throat, asthma, goiter.

Clinical notes

Shuitu is a key local point for acute and chronic throat conditions, particularly those involving swelling, pain, or difficulty swallowing. It is frequently used for goiter, scrofula, and plum-pit qi, reflecting its ability to resolve phlegm and regulate qi in the neck region. Its proximity to the carotid artery necessitates careful palpation and shallow needling.

On the Stomach channel

ST10 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST10 located?

ST10 (Shuitu) is located on the neck, at the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with the lower border of the hyoid bone.

What is ST10 used for?

ST10 benefits throat and neck, alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include sore throat, asthma, goiter.

How is ST10 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution is advised to avoid the carotid artery and jugular vein. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

Which meridian is ST10 on?

ST10 is a point on the Stomach Meridian (Zú Yángmíng Wèijīng).

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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.