Pressure Point: KI 3 – Taixi
- Name (Chinese): Taixi – (太谿)
- Name (English): Great Stream
- Introduction: Taixi (KI 3) is a vital acupressure point on the Kidney meridian, known as Great Stream in English. It plays a significant role in traditional Chinese medicine, believed to regulate the flow of energy (Qi) within the Kidney meridian.
Location
- Anterior and inferior to the medial malleolus tip.
- In the depression on the lower border of the navicular bone.
- At the border of the ‘red and white’ skin.
Pressure Point Identification
- Palpate from distal to proximal along the tarsal section of the medial aspect of the foot.
- Pass the shaft and the head of the 1st metatarsal bone and the medial cuneiform bone.
- Reach the prominent navicular bone.
- Locate KI 3 anterior to the navicular bone, at the inferior angle of the joint between the medial cuneiform bone and the navicular bone.
Benefits
- Regulates Kidney Qi.
- Strengthens the Kidney.
- Clears Heat from the Kidney.
Technique
- Apply moderate, steady pressure with the thumb or index finger.
- Use circular or kneading motions.
- Massage for 1-2 minutes, or as needed.
Precautions
- Avoid excessive pressure, especially if the person has a sensitive or injured foot.
- Pregnant women should consult a healthcare professional before applying pressure to this point.
Conditions Treated
- Fatigue.
- Insomnia.
- Lower back pain.
- Kidney disorders.
Related Points
- KI-1 (Yongquan): Located on the sole of the foot, this point is often stimulated in conjunction with KI 3 for grounding energy.
- KI-6 (Zhao Hai): This point is located on the medial ankle and is used for nourishing Yin and calming the mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can KI-3 be massaged if I have foot pain?
KI-3 can be massaged to alleviate mild foot pain. However, if you have severe or persistent foot pain, it’s advisable to seek professional guidance.
Is it safe to massage KI-3 during pregnancy?
Pregnant women can generally massage KI-3, but it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with individual health conditions.
How often should I massage KI 3 for optimal benefits?
Massaging KI-3 daily or as needed is generally safe. Begin with 1-2 minutes and adjust based on your comfort level. If you have any concerns, consult with a healthcare professional.