GB 32 — Zhōng Dú (中渎) — Middle Ditch
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1. Overview
GB 32 — Zhōng Dú (中渎) — is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder meridian. Its English name, Middle Ditch, reflects the point’s location in the muscular groove on the lateral thigh. It is used in acupuncture practice for lateral hip, thigh and knee disorders.
I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience. I use GB 32 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
On the lateral aspect of the thigh, 5 cun above the transverse popliteal crease, on the line connecting GB 31 (Fēng Shì) and GB 34 (Yáng Líng Quán), between vastus lateralis and biceps femoris.
3. Actions
- Dispels Wind-Damp
- Activates the channel and alleviates pain
- Benefits the joints of the lower limb
- Relaxes the sinews
4. Indications
- Pain in the lateral thigh and hip
- Sciatica along the Gallbladder channel
- Hemiplegia and lower-limb paralysis
- Numbness and weakness of the lower limb
- Lateral knee pain referred from the thigh
- Cold sensation in the leg
5. Needling
Perpendicular insertion 1.0–1.5 cun. Moxibustion is applicable.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. Never attempt self-needling. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment in a clinical sharps container.
6. Clinical notes
GB 32 Zhōng Dú is one of the principal lateral-thigh points for Wind-Damp and channel obstruction. It is regularly combined with GB 30 (Huán Tiào), GB 31 (Fēng Shì) and GB 34 (Yáng Líng Quán) for sciatica running along the Gallbladder pathway. The point is also indicated for lateral knee pain and post-stroke hemiplegia of the lower limb.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use GB 32 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Sciatica, Knee pain, hip pain and post-stroke recovery. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.
