Location

on the postero-lateral aspect of the hip joint, 1/3 the distance between the prominance of the greater trochanter and the sacro-coccygeal hiatus.

note; this point may be located and needled with the patient lying their side.

note; to accurately palpate the prominence of the greater trochanter place one hand over the lateral aspect of the hip joint a the level of the perineum, and with the other hand rotate the foot in order to feel the movement of the prominance of the greater trochanter.

Needling

perpendicular insertion towards the genitals 2.0 to 3.5 inches

moxa is OK

Actions

Activates the channel and relieves pain
Benfits the hip joint and leg
Dispels wind-damp

Signs and Symptoms

pain in the lumbar region, pain in the thigh, sciatica, muscular atrophy of the leg

Commentary

Huantiao is one Ma Dan-Yang's original 11 (later 12) Heavenly Star Points, which is a grouping of the 12 most important Acupuncture points according this great physician of the Jin Dynasty.

Huantiao is indicated for all disorders of the hip and buttock area whatever the cause. So powerful is the action of Huantiao that its effect reaches all the way down the leg and upwards to the lumbar region. If there is hip pain, needle Huantiao.