ST20 Receiving Fullness

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

ST20 (Chengman, “Receiving Fullness”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the upper abdomen, 4 cun superior to the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the midline (Ren Mai), at the level of Shangwan (CV13). This point is 1 cun inferior to Burong (ST19). It harmonizes the middle jiao, descends rebellious qi, alleviates abdominal distension and pain, and stops vomiting.

Location

On the upper abdomen, 4 cun superior to the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the midline (Ren Mai), at the level of Shangwan (CV13). This point is 1 cun inferior to Burong (ST19).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.8 to 1.2 cun. Caution: Deep insertion, especially in thin patients, carries a risk of puncturing the liver or stomach.

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TCM functions

Harmonizes the middle jiao, descends rebellious qi, alleviates abdominal distension and pain, and stops vomiting..

Indications

Intestinal rumbling, abdominal distension, upward rushing qi, wheezing, inability to eat or drink, panting with raised shoulders, spitting blood, inability to turn or lie on one's side due to intestinal rumbling, spleen-stomach deficiency and cold, chest and hypochondriac fullness and pain, abdominal fullness..

Clinical notes

Chengman is a key point on the upper abdomen for treating disorders of stomach qi, particularly rebellious qi and accumulation. Its indications focus on abdominal distension, borborygmus, and difficulty eating, often with associated respiratory symptoms like wheezing or panting due to qi obstruction. It is effective for conditions where food and qi stagnate in the stomach, leading to a sensation of fullness and discomfort that can ascend upwards.

On the Stomach channel

ST20 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST20 located?

ST20 (Chengman) is located on the upper abdomen, 4 cun superior to the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the midline (Ren Mai), at the level of Shangwan (CV13). This point is 1 cun inferior to Burong (ST19).

What is ST20 used for?

ST20 harmonizes the middle jiao, descends rebellious qi, alleviates abdominal distension and pain, and stops vomiting. Common clinical indications include intestinal rumbling, abdominal distension, upward rushing qi, wheezing, inability to eat or drink, panting with raised shoulders, spitting blood, inability to turn or lie on one's side due to intestinal rumbling, spleen-stomach deficiency and cold, chest and hypochondriac fullness and pain, abdominal fullness.

How is ST20 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.8 to 1.2 cun. Caution: Deep insertion, especially in thin patients, carries a risk of puncturing the liver or stomach. Caution: Overlies abdominal organs (liver/spleen/kidney/gallbladder) — avoid deep perpendicular insertion; risk of organ puncture.

Which meridian is ST20 on?

ST20 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.