ST42 Rushing Yang

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

ST42 (Chongyang, “Rushing Yang”) is the Yuan-source point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the dorsum of the foot, at the highest point of the instep, between the tendons of extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus, where the dorsalis pedis artery pulsates. It clears Stomach fire and alleviates pain.

Location

On the dorsum of the foot, at the highest point of the instep, between the tendons of extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus, where the dorsalis pedis artery pulsates.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Avoid the dorsalis pedis artery.

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

TCM functions

Clears Stomach fire and alleviates pain.

Indications

Facial paralysis, toothache, swelling of the foot, gastric pain.

Yuan-source

Clinical notes

As the Yuan-source point of the Stomach, ST42 is crucial for assessing and treating the fundamental Qi of the Stomach. It is particularly effective for clearing Stomach fire and heat, addressing symptoms like toothache, facial pain, and swelling. Its pulse palpation is a classical diagnostic method for Stomach Qi and blood. It is empirically used for facial paralysis.

On the Stomach channel

ST42 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST42 located?

ST42 (Chongyang) is located on the dorsum of the foot, at the highest point of the instep, between the tendons of extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus, where the dorsalis pedis artery pulsates.

What is ST42 used for?

ST42 clears Stomach fire and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include facial paralysis, toothache, swelling of the foot, gastric pain.

How is ST42 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Avoid the dorsalis pedis artery. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the pedis artery).

Which meridian is ST42 on?

ST42 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.