Rangu (Blazing Valley), also known as KID-2, is a classical pressure point in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) located on the inner side of the foot. It plays a significant role in regulating kidney fire and balancing internal heat. Clinically, it’s used for conditions like urinary discomfort, menstrual irregularities, and sore throat associated with excess heat. Its location in the depression just below the navicular bone, at the junction between red and white skin, makes it easily accessible for self-care.
Also known as “Blazing Valley,” this name reflects its heat-clearing properties, especially when kidney yang or deficiency heat flares up internally. In acupuncture meridian theory, KID-2 lies on the Kidney meridian and is considered a Ying-Spring point, responsible for clearing pathogenic heat from its associated organ.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Rangu – KID-2 (Blazing Valley) |
| Body Area | Foot (inner side) |
| Exact Location | In the depression distal to the navicular tuberosity on the medial foot |
| Common Uses | Urinary disorders, menstrual regulation, sore throat, foot pain |
| Stimulation Technique | Apply moderate thumb pressure for 1–2 minutes |
| Contraindications | Avoid during pregnancy without guidance; skip if area is inflamed |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
Rangu (KID-2) is particularly relevant in patterns of Kidney Yin Deficiency with Empty Heat, a syndrome in TCM marked by night sweats, hot flashes, irritability, and dry throat. It’s commonly used in protocols for:
- Urinary issues like burning urination or dark scanty urine
- Irregular menstruation and menopause-related symptoms
- Sore throat with a dry, irritated quality
- Ankle pain or local foot issues, especially along the Kidney meridian
Neurologically, the medial foot connects to the tibial nerve and vascular branches that influence both circulation and sensory feedback, making Rangu a point of somatic and energetic convergence.
Location
To locate Rangu, sit comfortably with the foot turned slightly outward. The point is found on the inner edge of the foot, in a hollow just under and slightly in front of the navicular bone—right where the skin changes from the paler inner surface to the reddish outer sole.
Use your thumb to explore for a small depression in that transition area. It’s just below the ankle bone, closer to the arch than the heel.
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 soothe urinary discomfort, regulate menstrual symptoms, or ease ankle pain, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app
How to Stimulate It
- Tool: Thumb or index finger
- Pressure: Firm but not painful
- Duration: Hold for 1–2 minutes per side
- Posture: Sitting cross-legged or with foot propped up
- Frequency: 1–2 times daily for chronic symptoms; up to 3 times during acute heat signs
- Combinations: Often paired with KID-3 (Bigger Stream) for yin tonification, or KID-6 (Illuminated Sea) for night sweats
Benefits and Common Uses
Rangu exerts a multi-dimensional effect on the body:
- Clears excess kidney heat: Night sweats, hot sensations in soles or palms
- Promotes urination: For difficulty or burning sensations
- Regulates menstrual cycles: Used in both early or delayed menstruation with internal heat
- Soothes sore throat: Especially when dryness or heat is the cause
- Relieves foot pain: Helpful for medial arch or navicular-related tension
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
In TCM, KID-2 connects with the Kidney meridian’s Ying-Spring point classification, linked to heat clearing and qi regulation in the organ system. Energetically, it’s considered part of the deep wellspring that nourishes reproductive and urinary health.
Modern interpretations suggest that stimulation at KID-2 may enhance parasympathetic activity and local vasodilation, improving hydration and circulation to deep tissues.
Practitioner Insight
In my clinical sessions, I’ve often found Rangu helpful when a client is dealing with an odd mix of anxiety and heat—like waking up sweaty at 3 a.m., feeling flustered but not mentally overwhelmed. Stimulating KID-2 gently, especially alongside a cooling breath practice, seems to calm both the nerves and the internal “fire.” It’s subtle, but potent.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid strong pressure during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester
- Do not use on inflamed, bruised, or infected skin
- Stop stimulation if burning or tingling sensations worsen
- Use lighter touch for elderly or frail individuals
For more precautions, visit our acupressure safety guide, and explore related techniques in our acupressure blog category.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- KID-3 (Bigger Stream): For deep Kidney yin nourishment
- KID-6 (Illuminated Sea): For hormonal balance and emotional grounding
- SP-6 (Sanyinjiao): For reproductive health and urinary function
- Complementary practices: Deep abdominal breathing, moxibustion for deficiency heat, and gentle foot tapping for lymphatic circulation
More sessions with Rangu (Blazing Valley) (KID-2) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
While peer-reviewed studies on KID-2 specifically are limited, broader research on acupressure along the Kidney meridian suggests benefits for menopausal symptoms, urinary tract discomfort, and autonomic regulation (PubMed). Its connection to the medial plantar nerve area also makes it a candidate for somatosensory integration therapy.