Patterns / Disharmonies — Heat with thirst
KI 6 Kidney 6 (KI6) – Zhaohai, Shining Sea
KI6 can help strengthen the immune system, promote mobility, and support emotional balance. It is often used for issues in the hindquarters.
Kidney 6 (KI6), also known as Zhaohai, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s hind limb. It is often used to support well-being and promote energy flow.
KI6 is located just below the medial hock, in a small depression between two tendons. Accurate location is essential for effective treatment.
KI6 can help strengthen the immune system, promote mobility, and support emotional balance. It is often used for issues in the hindquarters.
This point should only be treated by trained individuals, as improper use may cause discomfort. Carefully observe the horse during and after treatment.
Location KI6 is located distal to the medial malleolus, in the depression between the tibialis cranialis and flexor digitorum longus muscles. Palpation is easiest with the hock slightly flexed.
Functions KI6 is used to treat Yin deficiency, lower jiao disorders, hindlimb lameness, and reproductive or urogenital issues. It also influences the Ren Mai (Conception Vessel).
Safety For KI6, be mindful of the proximity to sensitive structures such as tendons and vessels. Aseptic technique and careful needling are essential to avoid complications.
Large Intestine 11 (LI11) – Quchi, Pool at the Crook
This point is traditionally used to support cases of fever, skin issues, and to promote mobility.
Large Intestine 11 (LI11), also known as Quchi, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's forelimb. It is commonly used to support various conditions.
LI11 is located on the lateral forelimb, in the depression at the junction of the elbow and the front of the leg.
This point is traditionally used to support cases of fever, skin issues, and to promote mobility.
Treatment of this point should only be performed by experienced individuals or under supervision, as improper use may cause discomfort.
Location LI11 is located at the lateral elbow, in the depression at the end of the elbow crease, cranial to the extensor carpi radialis muscle.
Functions LI11 clears heat, supports immunomodulation, has anti-inflammatory effects, and is used for dermatological, musculoskeletal, and febrile conditions.
Safety Caution with debilitated or highly sensitive horses; avoid deep or aggressive stimulation. Do not use in cases of local infection or open wounds.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4) – Hegu, Union Valley
LI4 is traditionally used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It can also help with issues in the head region.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4), also known as Hegu, is a key acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb. It is commonly used to support the immune system and relieve pain.
LI4 is located on the medial forelimb, between the second and third metacarpal bones, near the fetlock joint.
LI4 is traditionally used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It can also help with issues in the head region.
LI4 should not be used in pregnant mares as it may induce contractions. Application should always be performed by an experienced professional.
Location LI4 is located distally and medially on the forelimb, in the depression between the second and third metacarpal bones, at the level of the fetlock joint.
Functions LI4 is a Yuan-source point, used for treating pain, inflammation, fever, and for immunomodulation. It affects disorders of the head, teeth, and skin.
Safety Contraindicated in pregnancy due to its labor-inducing effect. Use caution in debilitated or very young animals.
PC 8 Pericardium 8 (PC8) – Laogong, Labor Palace
PC8 is used to calm the heart and mind, relieve stress, and help with heat symptoms.
Pericardium 8 (PC8) is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb, often used to support emotional stress and promote overall well-being.
PC8 is located on the midline of the sole of the forefoot, approximately where the horseshoe reaches its widest point.
PC8 is used to calm the heart and mind, relieve stress, and help with heat symptoms.
This point should only be treated by experienced individuals, as it can be sensitive. Carefully observe the horse for any signs of discomfort.
Location PC8 is located on the palmar aspect of the forehoof, precisely on the midline of the sole, between the apex of the frog and the toe edge.
Functions PC8 clears Heart Fire, calms Shen, and is used in acute heat symptoms, colic with agitation, and behavioral disorders.
Safety PC8 is highly sensitive and should be treated with caution, especially in horses with hoof issues or lameness. Strict aseptic conditions are mandatory.
SI 3 Small Intestine 3 (SI3) – Houxi, Back Stream
SI3 is often used to relieve musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back and neck areas. It can also promote general well-being.
Small Intestine 3 (SI3), also known as Houxi, is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
SI3 is located on the outside of the forelimb, just behind the fetlock joint, in a small depression above the fetlock head.
SI3 is often used to relieve musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back and neck areas. It can also promote general well-being.
This point should be treated with care, as improper use may cause discomfort. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location SI3 is located distally on the lateral splint bone of the forelimb, in the depression proximal to the fetlock joint, between the lateral splint bone head and the fetlock bone.
Functions SI3 is the Shu-stream and Wood point of the Small Intestine meridian. It is used for treating lameness, neck stiffness, back pain, and to support neurological disorders.
Safety When using SI3, ensure correct needling technique and calm restraint of the horse to prevent stress and injury.
SP 6 Spleen 6 (SP6) – Sanyinjiao, Three Yin Crossing
SP6 is traditionally used to support digestion, address urogenital issues, and promote overall energy flow.
The Spleen-Pancreas 6 (SP6), also known as Sanyinjiao, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s hind limb. It is often used to support health and well-being.
SP6 is located on the inside of the hind limb, about four finger-widths above the medial hock (ankle) bone, behind the tibia.
SP6 is traditionally used to support digestion, address urogenital issues, and promote overall energy flow.
Use SP6 with caution, especially in pregnant mares, as this point can induce contractions. Always consult a professional if in doubt.
Location SP6 is located on the medial aspect of the hind limb, at the intersection of the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians, approximately 3 cun proximal to the tip of the medial malleolus of the tibia.
Functions SP6 harmonizes the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney, promotes blood circulation, regulates the uterus, and is used for urogenital disorders, colic, and lameness.
Safety SP6 is contraindicated in pregnant mares due to its oxytocic effect. Adjust stimulation in cases of weakness or exhaustion.
ST 44 Stomach 44 (ST44) – 2nd toe corner
ST44 is used to calm the stomach, clear heat, and relieve pain in the mouth area.
Stomach 44 (ST44) is located at the nail corner of the second toe and is commonly used in acupuncture to support digestion.
ST44 is located at the lateral nail corner of the second toe of the forelimb.
ST44 is used to calm the stomach, clear heat, and relieve pain in the mouth area.
Treatment of this point should be performed carefully to avoid pain or injury to the sensitive toe area.
Location ST44 is located at the lateral nail corner of the second toe, approximately 0.1 cun lateral and proximal to the nail margin.
Functions ST44 clears stomach heat, harmonizes the gastrointestinal tract, treats dental pain, mouth ulcers, and assists in acute inflammatory conditions of the head.
Safety Needling ST44 requires precise technique to avoid local tissue damage and excessive stimulation.