ST28 Shuidao

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

ST28 (Shuidao, “Shuidao”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the lower abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the line connecting the umbilicus to the superior border of the pubic symphysis. It regulates the lower jiao, promotes urination, moves qi in the abdomen, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the lower abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the line connecting the umbilicus to the superior border of the pubic symphysis.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion, 1.0 to 1.5 cun. Caution: Deep insertion may puncture the peritoneum or a full bladder.

TCM functions

Regulates the lower jiao, promotes urination, moves qi in the abdomen, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Small intestine qi pain, bladder qi pain, lower abdominal fullness, pain radiating to the genitals, urinary difficulty, inability to urinate or defecate, bladder cold, heat in the three jiao, heat in the bladder and kidney, lower back and spine stiffness, shoulder and back pain, menstrual pain with lower back and spine involvement, uterine cold, uterine masses (jia), infertility in women..

Clinical notes

Shuidao is a primary point for disorders of the lower abdomen and urinary system. Its name, 'Waterway,' highlights its role in treating urinary retention, difficulty, and edema by regulating bladder function and the fluid passages. It is also effective for abdominal distention and pain, particularly conditions involving the bladder, intestines, and reproductive organs, such as hernia-like pain, menstrual disorders, and uterine cold.

On the Stomach channel

ST28 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST28 located?

ST28 (Shuidao) is located on the lower abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, on the line connecting the umbilicus to the superior border of the pubic symphysis.

What is ST28 used for?

ST28 regulates the lower jiao, promotes urination, moves qi in the abdomen, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include small intestine qi pain, bladder qi pain, lower abdominal fullness, pain radiating to the genitals, urinary difficulty, inability to urinate or defecate, bladder cold, heat in the three jiao, heat in the bladder and kidney, lower back and spine stiffness, shoulder and back pain, menstrual pain with lower back and spine involvement, uterine cold, uterine masses (jia), infertility in women.

How is ST28 needled?

Perpendicular insertion, 1.0 to 1.5 cun. Caution: Deep insertion may puncture the peritoneum or a full bladder.

Which meridian is ST28 on?

ST28 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.