Yanglingquan (GB34): The Yang Mound Spring for Tendons and Gallbladder

Yanglingquan: Where the Yang Springs Forth

Yanglingquan (阳陵泉, GB34) — “Yang Mound Spring” — is one of the most clinically important acupoints in the entire TCM system. Located on the outer side of the lower leg, it holds the distinction of being the Hui-meeting point (会穴) of the sinews — the singular point where the energy of all tendons, ligaments, and fascia in the body converges.

This makes Yanglingquan the single most important point for treating any tendon, ligament, or muscular condition. Whether it is a sports injury, chronic muscle spasm, tendonitis, or joint stiffness — Yanglingquan should be part of the treatment.

But its importance goes beyond the musculoskeletal system. As a key point on the Gallbladder meridian, Yanglingquan also:

• Harmonizes the Gallbladder and treats Gallbladder disharmony patterns
• Relieves rib-side (hypochondriac) pain
• Treats bitterness in the mouth and vomiting
• Addresses jaundice and gallbladder-related digestive issues

The name “Yang Mound Spring” refers to the point’s location: “Yang” (outer side of the leg), “Ling” (mound, referring to the head of the fibula), and “Quan” (spring, referring to the depression where Qi “springs forth”).

Location

Anatomical location: On the lateral aspect of the lower leg, in the depression anterior and inferior to the head of the fibula.

Quick finding method:

1. Sit with your knee bent at about 90 degrees
2. Feel for the rounded bone prominence on the outside of the lower leg, just below the knee — this is the head of the fibula
3. Slide your finger slightly forward (toward the front) and down from the fibula head
4. You will feel a noticeable depression — this is Yanglingquan
5. Press gently — a slight sore or aching sensation confirms the correct location

Key Functions

1. Relaxes Tendons and Relieves Spasms (舒筋活络)

As the Hui-meeting point of the sinews, this is Yanglingquan’s primary and most important function:

• Muscle spasms and cramps anywhere in the body
• Tendonitis and tendon strain
• Joint stiffness and limited range of motion
• Sports injuries involving tendons and ligaments
• Hemiplegia and paralysis recovery (post-stroke)
• Calf cramps and restless legs
• “Frozen shoulder” and rotator cuff issues

The concept of “Hui-meeting point” means that Qi from all the body’s sinews gathers here. Stimulating Yanglingquan is like pressing a master reset button for the body’s entire tendon system.

2. Harmonizes the Gallbladder (利胆)

Yanglingquan is essential for treating Gallbladder disharmony:

• Bitter taste in the mouth (especially in the morning)
• Rib-side (hypochondriac) pain and distension
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sighing and chest oppression
• Jaundice
• Gallbladder pain and discomfort

The Gallbladder in TCM is responsible for decision-making and courage. When Gallbladder Qi is stagnant, indecision, timidity, and a feeling of being “stuck” in life often accompany the physical symptoms.

3. Clears Damp-Heat in the Liver and Gallbladder (清利湿热)

When damp-heat accumulates in the Liver-Gallbladder system:

• Jaundice with yellow skin and eyes
• Dark, concentrated urine
• Bitter mouth with sticky saliva
• Red, swollen eyes
• Irritability and anger

Yanglingquan helps flush damp-heat through its connection to the Gallbladder meridian.

Clinical Applications

Musculoskeletal:

• Chronic knee pain and stiffness
• Ankle sprains and Achilles tendon issues
• Muscle cramps in the legs and calves
• Post-stroke rehabilitation for limb spasticity
• Tendonitis (tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis, etc.)
• Fibromyalgia and generalized muscle pain

Digestive (Gallbladder-related):

• Chronic cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)
• Gallstone-related discomfort
• Biliary dyskinesia
• Nausea with bitter taste

Emotional:

• Irritability and frustration from Liver-Gallbladder stagnation
• Timidity and indecisiveness
• Anger management (as a supporting point)

Acupoint Combinations

Combination	Purpose
Yanglingquan (GB34) + Yinlingquan (SP9)	The “Lingquan” pair — treats knee pain and lower leg edema
Yanglingquan (GB34) + Taichong (LR3)	Harmonizes Liver-Gallbladder, treats rib pain and irritability
Yanglingquan (GB34) + Hegu (LI4)	Relaxes muscles and tendons systemically
Yanglingquan (GB34) + Zusanli (ST36)	Strengthens legs, treats chronic weakness and fatigue
Yanglingquan (GB34) + Huantiao (GB30)	Treats sciatica and radiating leg pain

Self-Massage Technique

Yanglingquan is excellent for self-treatment, especially for leg and knee issues:

1. Sit comfortably with the knee slightly bent
2. Locate the point below the fibula head on the outer leg
3. Press firmly with your thumb or middle finger
4. Knead in circular motions for 2-3 minutes on each leg
5. For muscle cramps: Press firmly and hold for 30 seconds, then release and stretch the affected muscle
6. For knee stiffness: Massage while slowly extending and bending the knee

Daily practice: Massage both sides morning and evening for chronic conditions. For acute muscle cramps, massage immediately when the spasm occurs.

Precautions

• Pregnancy: Generally safe for musculoskeletal complaints but use moderate pressure only
• Severe swelling or inflammation: Do not apply strong pressure over acutely inflamed joints — use gentle touch or nearby points instead
• Deep vein thrombosis: Avoid strong massage on the lower legs if DVT is suspected

Key Takeaways

• Yanglingquan (GB34) is the Hui-meeting point of sinews — the master point for all tendon and muscle conditions
• Also harmonizes the Gallbladder, treats rib pain, bitter mouth, and jaundice
• Located below the fibula head on the outer lower leg
• Essential for sports injuries, muscle spasms, and post-stroke rehabilitation

Related Articles

• Taichong (LR3): The Liver Source Point
• Zusanli (ST36): The Longevity Point
• Hegu (LI4): The Master Pain and Fever Point
• The Eight Extraordinary Vessels and Meridian Theory