Yang Mound Spring, or GB 34, is one of the most influential points along the Gallbladder meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Located on the lateral side of the lower leg, it is classified as the He-Sea and Hui-Meeting point of the sinews. GB 34 plays a central role in treating musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those affecting the tendons, joints, and lower limbs.
Due to its wide-ranging applications in both structural and digestive conditions, GB 34 is considered essential in acupuncture and acupressure protocols aimed at enhancing mobility, reducing pain, and balancing liver-gallbladder energetics.
Alternate naming includes GB 34 and Yanglingquan (Yang Mound Spring).
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | GB 34 – Yang Mound Spring |
| Body Area | Leg |
| Exact Location | Depression just below and in front of the fibula head on the outer lower leg |
| Common Uses | Muscle tension, joint pain, cramping, knee stiffness, digestive discomfort |
| Stimulation Technique | Apply steady pressure with thumb or knuckle in circular motion for 1–2 minutes |
| Contraindications | Avoid deep pressure if inflammation, fracture, or varicose veins are present |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
GB 34 is regarded as the Hui-Meeting point of the sinews, giving it clinical relevance for conditions involving:
- Muscle stiffness or spasms in the legs, back, or neck
- Joint disorders such as knee pain, hip tension, or ankle immobility
- Cramps, tremors, or limited range of motion
- Liver-related symptoms such as rib-side pain, irritability, or digestive irregularity
- Sciatica or pain along the lateral leg pathway
Energetically, GB 34 helps soothe the liver’s influence on the tendons and supports smooth flow of qi throughout the lower limbs.
Location
To find GB 34:
- Sit or lie with the knee slightly bent.
- Locate the prominent head of the fibula bone on the outer lower leg.
- Move your finger just anterior and slightly inferior to the fibula head—into the natural depression between bone and muscle.
The point is about one finger-width below the outer knee line, in a soft hollow near the tibialis anterior muscle.
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 joint stiffness, ease muscle tightness, or support liver-bile function, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app.
How to Stimulate It
- Tool: Thumb or knuckle
- Method: Apply firm, circular or direct pressure to the depression
- Duration: 1 to 2 minutes per side
- Pressure Level: Moderate to strong, avoiding pain
- Posture: Performed seated with the leg bent or lying flat
- Frequency: 1–2 times daily or during active muscle recovery
- Pairing: Often used with LV 3 – Great Rushing to harmonize Liver-Gallbladder energy
Benefits and Common Uses
The Yang Mound Spring pressure point is especially beneficial for:
- Musculoskeletal health: Reduces muscle cramps, tendon pain, and joint stiffness
- Motor coordination: Supports flexibility and balance in legs and hips
- Liver and digestion: Helps manage nausea, bile flow, and side rib tension
- Energy flow: Harmonizes Liver Qi stagnation and promotes mobility of yang energy
In modern terms, GB 34 is often stimulated to assist with postural alignment, athletic recovery, and physical therapy protocols involving the lower extremities.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
In TCM, GB 34 connects deeply with the Liver’s role in governing sinews, making it central in resolving conditions that involve impaired soft tissue mobility.
Anatomically, this point is located near branches of the common peroneal nerve and fibular artery, suggesting potential effects on neuromuscular coordination and circulation. Stimulating GB 34 may increase local blood flow, reduce inflammation, and assist in neuromuscular reset—especially after injury or overuse.
Practitioner Insight
I often use GB 34 with individuals who feel physically rigid or “stuck” in their lower body—whether from prolonged sitting or intense training. It’s a reliable anchor point for re-establishing muscle tone and fluidity, especially when paired with deep tissue work or breath-focused movement.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid if the fibular region is acutely inflamed or bruised
- Use caution in individuals with blood clotting disorders or varicose veins
- Reduce pressure during pregnancy or elderly care
For general safety, visit our Acupressure Safety Guide and explore more tools in the Acupressure category.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- ST 36 – Leg Three Miles for digestion and immunity
- LV 3 – Great Rushing for Liver qi regulation
- BL 40 – Middle of the Crook for back and knee relief
Adjunctive techniques:
- Tennis ball rolling: Gentle myofascial release near GB 34
- Moxibustion: Beneficial for chronic joint stiffness or cold-type pain
- Active ankle flexion: Enhances stimulation and muscle response
Scientific Perspective
Studies have shown that acupuncture at GB 34 can improve motor coordination and reduce spasticity in neurological conditions such as stroke rehabilitation. Some research has also highlighted its role in modulating pain perception and improving bile secretion patterns in liver-bile disorders (PubMed).