Yin Valley (K 10) is an important pressure point along the Kidney meridian, located at the medial knee, just behind the inner condyle of the femur. It is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support urinary regulation, reduce lower limb pain, and clear damp-heat from the lower jiao (lower abdominal region).
Known as K 10 in meridian charts, this point serves both musculoskeletal and internal organ functions—especially when urinary tract or reproductive concerns overlap with knee discomfort.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Yin Valley – K 10 |
| Body Area | Knee |
| Exact Location | On the medial side of the popliteal fossa, behind the inner knee |
| Common Uses | Urinary issues, knee pain, genital swelling, reproductive disorders |
| Stimulation Technique | Thumb or finger pressure, medium intensity, 1–2 minutes |
| Contraindications | Avoid during pregnancy without professional supervision |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
Yin Valley (K 10) is clinically relevant for:
- Urinary dysfunctions, including painful urination and incontinence
- Genitourinary inflammation, such as prostatitis and vulvar swelling
- Knee joint pain with internal rotation tension or swelling
- Energetic patterns involving Kidney deficiency, damp-heat, or lower body stagnation
Energetically, K 10 influences Kidney Qi and helps regulate fluid metabolism in the lower body. It also has a calming effect on the pelvic region, making it useful in holistic protocols for reproductive balance and chronic urogenital issues.
Location
To find Yin Valley:
- Bend the knee slightly and palpate the medial (inner) side of the popliteal crease
- Locate the tendon of the semitendinosus muscle
- K 10 lies just posterior to the medial femoral condyle, in the soft depression behind the knee
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 urinary issues, ease medial knee pain, or balance lower body energy, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app
How to Stimulate It
- Tools: Thumb, index finger, or massage tool
- Pressure: Medium and steady, avoiding over-compression of the joint
- Duration: 1–2 minutes per side, followed by rest
- Posture: Best accessed when seated or lying with the knee bent
- Often used alongside K 3, Sp 6, or BL 40 in urinary and reproductive protocols
Benefits and Common Uses
- Improves urinary flow and relieves pain associated with urination
- Alleviates knee stiffness, especially behind the joint
- Reduces genital swelling and discomfort in the groin or pelvis
- Used to relax the pelvic floor and calm spasms
- Assists in treatments involving sexual vitality and reproductive health
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
- Stimulates the Kidney meridian and modulates the urethrogenital system
- Promotes circulation through the popliteal vascular network
- Encourages lymphatic drainage and reduces inflammation in the pelvic basin
- May influence bladder function through neurovascular reflex arcs linked to the tibial nerve
Practitioner Insight
When I work with clients experiencing deep pelvic tension or urinary retention from stress or postural habits, K 10 often plays a central role. Its depth and positioning allow for a grounded release—especially when paired with breathwork or grounding touch along the Kidney channel. I find it most effective when used early in protocols for lower-body stagnation.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester
- Do not apply to areas of infection, inflammation, or recent surgery
- Caution for individuals with circulatory disorders affecting the knee or popliteal fossa
- For more precautions, read our Acupressure Safety Guide
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- K 3 – Great Stream: Enhances Kidney Qi and energy flow
- Sp 6 – Three Yin Intersection: Used for menstrual and urinary regulation
- BL 40 – Commanding Middle: Alleviates back and leg pain
- Complementary methods include heat therapy, deep abdominal breathing, or gentle moxibustion
More sessions with Yin Valley (K 10) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
Research supports the efficacy of acupoint stimulation for genitourinary disorders and chronic knee pain. Though direct studies on K 10 are limited, studies on the Kidney meridian and popliteal acupressure show benefits in improving urinary urgency, inflammation, and neuromuscular relaxation. These effects may be mediated via somatoautonomic regulation and neuroimmune pathways (PubMed).