GV 8 — Jīn Suō (筋缩) — Sinew Contraction
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1. Overview
GV 8 — Jīn Suō (筋缩) — is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel (Du Mai). Its English name, Sinew Contraction, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used in acupuncture practice as part of channel-balancing prescriptions for a range of conditions.
I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience. I use GV 8 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
On the midline of the back, in the depression below the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra, level with BL-18 Ganshu. Note: this point is located six intervertebral spaces above the line connecting the highest points of the iliac crests.
3. Actions
- Soothes the Liver
- Pacifies Wind
- Relieves spasms
- Calms the Shen
- Relaxes the sinews
4. Indications
- Upward staring eyes
- Clonic spasm
- Epilepsy
- Childhood fright epilepsy
- Stiffness and contraction of the spine
- Heart pain
- Spasms
- Convulsions
- Stiffness of the back
5. Needling
Oblique- superior insertion, 0.5 to 1 cun.
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
GV 8 Jīn Suō (Sinew Contraction) is used as part of channel-balancing prescriptions tailored to the patient’s individual TCM diagnosis.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use GV 8 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions 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.
