ST35 Dubi

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

ST35 (Dubi, “Dubi”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located with the knee flexed, this point is located on the anterior aspect of the knee, in the depression just below the patella and lateral to the patellar ligament. It based on the classical texts, this point dispels wind-damp, activates the channel, alleviates pain, and benefits the knee joint.

Location

With the knee flexed, this point is located on the anterior aspect of the knee, in the depression just below the patella and lateral to the patellar ligament.

Needling

With the knee flexed, needle perpendicularly 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Alternatively, needle obliquely in a medial and inferior direction toward the center of the knee joint, or towards the medial Xiyan (MN-LE-16).

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TCM functions

Based on the classical texts, this point dispels wind-damp, activates the channel, alleviates pain, and benefits the knee joint..

Indications

Knee pain, numbness in the knee, difficulty flexing and extending the knee, difficulty kneeling and rising, leg weakness, cold sensation in the knee, foot weakness (beriberi)..

Clinical notes

ST35 is a primary local point for a wide array of knee disorders, especially those involving pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Its classical indications emphasize its role in treating pain, numbness, and weakness affecting the joint's function. Moxibustion is frequently mentioned, particularly for cold conditions or chronic weakness of the leg, such as in post-stroke recovery or beriberi.

On the Stomach channel

ST35 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

ST31ST32ST33ST34ST36ST37ST38ST39

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST35 located?

ST35 (Dubi) is located with the knee flexed, this point is located on the anterior aspect of the knee, in the depression just below the patella and lateral to the patellar ligament.

What is ST35 used for?

ST35 based on the classical texts, this point dispels wind-damp, activates the channel, alleviates pain, and benefits the knee joint. Common clinical indications include knee pain, numbness in the knee, difficulty flexing and extending the knee, difficulty kneeling and rising, leg weakness, cold sensation in the knee, foot weakness (beriberi).

How is ST35 needled?

With the knee flexed, needle perpendicularly 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Alternatively, needle obliquely in a medial and inferior direction toward the center of the knee joint, or towards the medial Xiyan (MN-LE-16). Caution: One classic warns that if the patellar area is swollen and ulcerated, this point should not be treated. Another states that needling the patella and causing a leakage of fluid can lead to lameness, urging caution. A third text mentions that needling Dubi can result in an inability to extend the leg.

Which meridian is ST35 on?

ST35 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.