GB 30, also known as Huantiao or Jumping Circle, is a major point along the Gallbladder meridian and is located on the buttocks, lateral to the sacrum. It’s one of the most powerful points used in both acupuncture and acupressure for addressing hip pain, sciatica, and lower limb dysfunction.
Top therapeutic uses of GB 30:
- Alleviates sciatica and lower back pain
- Relieves hip stiffness and leg numbness
- Improves circulation and mobility in the lower limbs
Alternate names: Huantiao (GB 30), Gallbladder 30.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Jumping Circle – GB 30 (Huantiao) |
| Body Area | Buttocks |
| Exact Location | On the buttock, lateral to the sacrum and greater trochanter |
| Common Uses | Sciatica, hip pain, leg weakness, piriformis syndrome |
| Stimulation Technique | Deep thumb or knuckle pressure for 1–2 minutes |
| Contraindications | Avoid in cases of inflammation or bruising in the area |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Jumping Circle pressure point is a key therapeutic target for neuromuscular conditions affecting the hip, pelvis, and legs. It’s widely used to address:
- Sciatic nerve pain
- Piriformis syndrome
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Postural imbalances and gait dysfunction
From an energetic standpoint, GB 30 helps regulate the flow of liver and gallbladder qi, supporting movement and detoxification. It also influences the tendino-muscular meridians, making it relevant for sports injuries and musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
Location
GB 30 is located on the buttock, approximately midway between:
- The sacral hiatus (at the base of the spine)
- And the greater trochanter (bony prominence on the side of the hip)
To locate it:
- Have the person lie on their side.
- Draw an imaginary line between the sacral opening and the outer hip bone.
- The point lies in the gluteal region, roughly where this line crosses the midline of the buttock.
Looking for an easier way to use this point in your wellness routine?
This pressure point is simple to locate and even easier to apply when guided step-by-step. It’s featured in over 70 evidence-based pressure point protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app. Whether you’re looking to relieve hip tension, soothe sciatic pain, or improve leg mobility, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app.
How to Stimulate It
- Method: Use your thumb, knuckle, or elbow depending on desired intensity.
- Pressure: Apply firm, slow, downward pressure into the gluteal muscles.
- Duration: 1 to 2 minutes per side, using steady compression or circular motion.
- Frequency: Up to twice daily, especially during acute discomfort.
- Position: Best performed while lying on the side or in a prone position.
- Pairs well with: BL 36 and GB 34 for comprehensive lower limb relief.
Benefits and Common Uses
Stimulation of GB 30 provides both local and systemic benefits:
- Neuromuscular relief: Helps release the sciatic nerve and relax deep gluteal muscles
- Mobility support: Improves range of motion in the hip and lower back
- Energetic flow: Enhances circulation of liver and gallbladder qi
- Pain modulation: Reduces tension referred from lumbar and sacral nerves
In chronic conditions, regular use may support recovery from long-standing postural or mobility issues.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, GB 30 lies over the sciatic nerve as it exits the pelvis, making it a direct access point for relieving nerve compression and deep muscular tension. Stimulation may influence:
- Sciatic nerve conduction velocity
- Trigger point sensitivity in the piriformis and gluteus medius
- Local blood flow to the hip and thigh region
From a TCM perspective, it’s a Shu point that disperses wind, clears dampness, and unblocks meridians.
Practitioner Insight
When I work with individuals experiencing hip pain or radiating discomfort down the leg, GB 30 is almost always involved. It’s not always pleasant at first—it’s a deep point—but the release afterward is profound. I’ve seen it turn around mobility limitations in just a few sessions, especially when combined with gentle stretching and breathwork.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid strong pressure in cases of acute inflammation, infection, or recent trauma to the buttocks.
- Use gentle techniques for elderly individuals or those with fragile tissue tone.
- Contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the later trimesters, due to its depth and location near reproductive and pelvic structures.
Learn more in our acupressure safety guide and explore more insights at our acupressure category hub.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
Complementary Points:
Adjunct Techniques:
- Gluteal foam rolling
- Hip-opening stretches
- Alternating hot and cold compresses
- Moxibustion to dispel dampness or cold
More sessions with Jumping Circle (GB 30) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
Clinical research supports GB 30 as an effective intervention point for sciatic neuralgia, lumbar disc herniation, and gluteal myofascial trigger points. Studies using electroacupuncture at GB 30 have shown improvements in nerve conductivity and reductions in inflammatory markers in sciatic nerve pathways. This aligns with its traditional role in restoring smooth flow of qi and blood in the lower limbs.