ST22 Guanmen

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

ST22 (Guanmen, “Guanmen”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the upper abdomen, 3 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the midline (Ren Mai), at the level of Jianli (CV11). This is 1 cun inferior to Liangmen (ST21). It regulates the Stomach and Intestines, resolves accumulations, disinhibits urination, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the upper abdomen, 3 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the midline (Ren Mai), at the level of Jianli (CV11). This is 1 cun inferior to Liangmen (ST21).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion, 1.0 to 1.5 cun.

TCM functions

Regulates the Stomach and Intestines, resolves accumulations, disinhibits urination, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Accumulation of qi, borborygmus with sudden pain, diarrhea, lack of desire to eat, sensation of qi moving in the abdomen, tightness flanking the umbilicus, general body swelling, body heaviness, urinary incontinence, frequent urination, malarial disorders with shivering, abdominal fullness, abdominal pain..

Clinical notes

Guanmen is a key point on the upper abdomen for treating disorders of qi stagnation and accumulation in the digestive system. Its indications for borborygmus, moving abdominal pain, and poor appetite highlight its role in regulating gastrointestinal motility. Additionally, its classical use for urinary incontinence and swelling suggests a broader function in managing fluid metabolism, consistent with the Neijing's concept of the stomach as the 'gate' for the kidney's water regulation.

On the Stomach channel

ST22 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST22 located?

ST22 (Guanmen) is located on the upper abdomen, 3 cun above the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the midline (Ren Mai), at the level of Jianli (CV11). This is 1 cun inferior to Liangmen (ST21).

What is ST22 used for?

ST22 regulates the Stomach and Intestines, resolves accumulations, disinhibits urination, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include accumulation of qi, borborygmus with sudden pain, diarrhea, lack of desire to eat, sensation of qi moving in the abdomen, tightness flanking the umbilicus, general body swelling, body heaviness, urinary incontinence, frequent urination, malarial disorders with shivering, abdominal fullness, abdominal pain.

How is ST22 needled?

Perpendicular insertion, 1.0 to 1.5 cun.

Which meridian is ST22 on?

ST22 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.