GB-30 Huantiao
GB-30 Huantiao (環跳) is a point on the Gallbladder meridian. In TCM theory it is described as influencing the channel's qi, and it is traditionally used in the context of the whole pattern rather than as a stand-alone remedy. This page explains how to locate it, what the tradition says about it, and how to press it safely.
Location
At the junction of the lateral third and medial two-thirds of the line between the greater trochanter and the sacral hiatus.
How to find it
Lie on the side. Find the bony point of the hip and the tailbone; the point is about one-third of the way from the hip bone toward the tailbone.
Traditional functions
- Benefits the hip and legs
- Clears dampness from the lower body
- Relaxes the sinews
Traditional uses
- Hip and buttock pain
- Sciatica-like patterns in traditional practice
- Leg weakness
- Lower-limb tension
How to press it
Use a firm palm or a tennis ball against a wall for 1 minute. Deep point; keep pressure comfortable.
Acupressure is generally a gentle practice. Use the pad of the thumb or finger, start with light pressure, and increase only to a comfortable level. A mild ache or warmth is common; sharp pain is a signal to ease off.
Safety
Avoid strong pressure during pregnancy and with a hip injury. Severe hip pain or weakness needs medical evaluation.
How this is viewed today
GB-30 is one of the most studied points for hip and sciatic pain. Reviews report modest short-term benefit.
Sources & further reading
- Huangdi Neijing (黃帝內經), c. 2nd century BCE.
- Nanjing (難經), c. 1st–2nd century CE.
- World Health Organization, Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, 2nd ed., 1991.
- Deadman P, Al-Khafaji M, Baker K. A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Acupuncture: What You Need To Know.
Related: Gallbladder meridian · Acupoint library · GB-34 Yanglingquan · BL-40 Weizhong · GB-20 Fengchi · all twelve meridians