ST9 Man's Welcome

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

ST9 (Renying, “Man's Welcome”) is the Window of the Sky point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the lateral side of the Adam's apple, at the level of the superior border of the thyroid cartilage, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the trachea, where the common carotid artery pulsates. It regulates Qi and blood, calms dyspnea, clears heat.

Location

On the lateral side of the Adam's apple, at the level of the superior border of the thyroid cartilage, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the trachea, where the common carotid artery pulsates.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, avoiding the carotid artery and jugular vein. Extreme caution is advised.

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

TCM functions

Regulates Qi and blood, calms dyspnea, clears heat.

Indications

Sore throat, asthma, goiter, scrofula, hypertension.

Window of the Sky

Clinical notes

As a Window of the Sky point, ST9 is crucial for regulating Qi and blood in the head and neck, making it a significant point for both excess and deficiency patterns. It is known for calming dyspnea and clearing heat, especially in conditions like hypertension and goiter. Its proximity to the carotid artery requires careful palpation and shallow needling. It is empirically used for regulating blood pressure.

On the Stomach channel

ST9 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST9 located?

ST9 (Renying) is located on the lateral side of the Adam's apple, at the level of the superior border of the thyroid cartilage, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the trachea, where the common carotid artery pulsates.

What is ST9 used for?

ST9 regulates Qi and blood, calms dyspnea, clears heat. Common clinical indications include sore throat, asthma, goiter, scrofula, hypertension.

How is ST9 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, avoiding the carotid artery and jugular vein. Extreme caution is advised. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

Which meridian is ST9 on?

ST9 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.