ST42 Chongyang translates to 'Rushing Yang'

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

ST42 (Chongyang, “Chongyang translates to 'Rushing Yang'”) is the Yuan-Source Point point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the dorsum of the foot, at its highest point, in the depression between the second and third metatarsal bones and the cuneiform bones, where the dorsalis pedis artery is palpable. This is approximately 2 cun proximal to ST43 (Xiangu) and 1.5 cun distal to ST41 (Jiexi). It tonifies Stomach Qi, harmonizes the Stomach, calms the spirit, and activates the channel to alleviate pain.

Location

On the dorsum of the foot, at its highest point, in the depression between the second and third metatarsal bones and the cuneiform bones, where the dorsalis pedis artery is palpable. This is approximately 2 cun proximal to ST43 (Xiangu) and 1.5 cun distal to ST41 (Jiexi).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, avoiding the dorsalis pedis artery. Oblique insertion is also used.

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TCM functions

Tonifies Stomach Qi, harmonizes the Stomach, calms the spirit, and activates the channel to alleviate pain..

Indications

Malaria with prolonged cold then heat,unilateral wind stroke, facial paralysis with deviation of the mouth and eyes, swelling of the dorsum of the foot, toothache with alternating fever and chills, abdominal hardness and distention, poor appetite, shivering and yawning in Shang Han (cold damage) disorders, chronic mania, climbing to high places and singing, taking off clothes and running around, weakness of the foot with inability to walk properly, pain in the front of the body..

Yuan-Source Point

Clinical notes

As the Yuan-Source point of the Stomach, ST42 is a key point for diagnosing and treating disorders of the Stomach Fu. Its location over the dorsalis pedis artery makes it a site for assessing the state of Stomach Qi; a weak or absent pulse here is a grave prognostic sign according to the Neijing. Clinically, it is used for a range of Stomach channel issues, from digestive complaints and facial paralysis to mania and disorders of the lower limb.

On the Stomach channel

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

ST37ST38ST39ST40ST41ST43ST44ST45

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST42 located?

ST42 (Chongyang) is located on the dorsum of the foot, at its highest point, in the depression between the second and third metatarsal bones and the cuneiform bones, where the dorsalis pedis artery is palpable. This is approximately 2 cun proximal to ST43 (Xiangu) and 1.5 cun distal to ST41 (Jiexi).

What is ST42 used for?

ST42 tonifies Stomach Qi, harmonizes the Stomach, calms the spirit, and activates the channel to alleviate pain. Common clinical indications include malaria with prolonged cold then heat,unilateral wind stroke, facial paralysis with deviation of the mouth and eyes, swelling of the dorsum of the foot, toothache with alternating fever and chills, abdominal hardness and distention, poor appetite, shivering and yawning in Shang Han (cold damage) disorders, chronic mania, climbing to high places and singing, taking off clothes and running around, weakness of the foot with inability to walk properly, pain in the front of the body.

How is ST42 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, avoiding the dorsalis pedis artery. Oblique insertion is also used. Caution: The Su Wen warns that if needling the artery on the dorsum of the foot leads to unstoppable bleeding, it can be fatal. Care must be taken to avoid puncturing the dorsalis 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.