AMAZING ACUPRESSURE POINT SERIES #9:
SPLEEN 6 (Sp 6)
Pinyin Name – San Yin Jiao
English Translations – Three Yin Meeting, Three Yin Intersection, Three Yin Crossing
Spleen 6 is the acupressure point where the three hind leg meridians, Spleen – Kidney – Liver, intersect energetically. This acupoint is commonly used for a wide variety of issues from edema to insomnia. Sp 6 is such a powerful point that it is contraindicated during pregnancy because it can cause the fetus to be aborted. If, however, there’s a need to induce labor, Sp 6 can be effective.
Spleen 6 can be a tender acupoint because it’s in a sensitive location. It’s on the medial side of the animal’s hind leg below the stifle and above the medial malleolus (see locations below). We suggest just resting your finger on the point – light touch is suggested to avoid the horse, dog, or cat discomfort. If the animal indicates it is too tender, release it gently.
Acupoint Classifications
Spleen 6 is the Master point for the urogenital system and caudal abdomen. As a Master point, Sp 6 can be used in the Point Work segment of an acupressure session where the issue involves that anatomical region of the animal’s body.
Energetic Actions
Spleen 6 is known to strengthen Spleen, Stomach, and Kidney, while harmonizing Liver. It dispels dampness, regulates middle and lower Jiao (heaters, burners), cools and invigorates Blood, enhances Yin, regulates the estrus cycle and fertility, and calms the spirit (shen).
Indicators / Clinical Signs
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Spleen 6 is a versatile acupoint and can be included in an acupressure sessions when the animal presents with any of the different indicators or clinical signs below:
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Irregular estrus cycles, fertility/reproductive issues
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Digestive disorders, abdominal distention
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Edema
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Muscular pain
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Blood disorders
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Skin disease
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Prolapsed uterus
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Hyperthyroidism
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Spleen chi deficiency
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Kidney yin deficiency
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Insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, shen disturbances
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Enuresis (i.e., involuntary urination), anuria (i.e. inability to urinate) dysuria (i.e., difficult or painful urination), or dark urination
Location
Equine – Found 3 cun above the medial malleolus, caudal to the tibial border on the medial aspect of the hind leg. Sp 6 is about0.5 cun posterior to the saphenous vein of the hind limb.
Canine & Feline – Located 3 cun above the tip of the medial malleolus on the caudal border of the tibia.
By Amy Snow & Nancy Zidonis
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