The Joining the Valley (Hoku) pressure point (LI 4) is one of the most widely used and researched points in Traditional Chinese Medicine, located on the Large Intestine meridian. Positioned in the webbing between the thumb and index finger, LI 4 is known for its broad systemic influence. It is commonly used to relieve pain, stimulate digestion, support immune function, and regulate the nervous system. Due to its versatility and accessibility, it is frequently applied in clinical acupressure and acupuncture protocols.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | LI 4 – Joining the Valley (Hoku) |
| Body Area | Hand |
| Exact Location | Highest spot of muscle in webbing between thumb and index finger |
| Common Uses | Relieves headaches, constipation, toothaches, immune-boosting |
| Stimulation Technique | Squeeze webbing toward index finger bone for 1–2 min. Avoid during pregnancy |
| Contraindications | Avoid during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulation |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Joining the Valley (Hoku) pressure point is considered a command point for the face and head. It is frequently used in cases of:
- Headaches and facial pain
- Toothaches and jaw tension
- Gastrointestinal disturbances such as constipation
- Immune suppression or general malaise
- Symptoms related to autonomic imbalance, including anxiety and tension
Clinically, LI 4 affects multiple body systems: the muscular system through trigger point activation, the nervous system via sensory nerve endings, and the immune system through modulation of stress and circulation.
Location
LI 4 is located on the dorsum of the hand, at the highest point of the muscle when the thumb and index finger are brought together.
To find it:
- Spread your thumb and index finger apart
- Identify the peak of the mound between them
- Apply pressure just behind that point, pressing toward the base of the index finger
This location is prominently shown in anatomical hand diagrams and frequently referenced in both Eastern and Western integrative manuals.
How to Stimulate It
To effectively stimulate LI 4:
- Technique: Use the opposite thumb to apply pressure into the webbing
- Direction: Press downward and toward the index finger’s metacarpal bone
- Intensity: Firm pressure, strong but tolerable
- Duration: Hold for 1–2 minutes, then release gradually
- Frequency: Up to 2–3 times daily, especially during headaches or digestive issues
- Position: Seated or lying down, hand resting on a table or thigh
LI 4 may be used alone or paired with other points depending on the therapeutic goal.
Benefits and Common Uses
LI 4 is traditionally used to:
- Relieve pain, especially in the head, face, and neck
- Regulate intestinal function, aiding in cases of constipation or bloating
- Clear heat and expel wind, addressing fever, inflammation, or acute illness
- Boost Wei Qi (defensive energy), improving immune resilience
- Calm the mind and alleviate emotional agitation
Its use in modern contexts includes headache relief, reduction of dental pain, labor induction (under medical supervision), and support for general systemic balance.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, LI 4 is situated near the radial nerve branches and muscle fascia. Its stimulation may:
- Activate descending pain inhibition pathways in the central nervous system
- Modulate gastrointestinal motility via autonomic nervous system interaction
- Influence local circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Support endocrine function through reduced cortisol levels in stress-prone individuals
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, LI 4 is a Yuan-Source point and has a systemic impact, making it essential in treatments that address internal and external disharmony.
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point has consistently helped with sudden-onset headaches and that heavy, foggy sensation that builds in the forehead. A few minutes of firm pressure here often shifts the entire system toward clarity and groundedness.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid using LI 4 during pregnancy, especially during the first and second trimesters, due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions.
Use caution in individuals with:
- Bleeding disorders
- Recent hand injuries
- Active inflammation in the area
Always monitor intensity and avoid prolonged overuse. For full guidelines, visit our acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
LI 4 is commonly combined with:
- ST 36 – Three Mile Point to support digestion and immunity
- GV 20 – Hundred Meetings for mental clarity and headache relief
- SP 6 – Sanyinjiao for hormonal and nervous system regulation
Additional techniques include:
- Breath synchronization during stimulation
- Reflexology or hand massage integration
- Moxibustion for enhanced immune or gastrointestinal effects
Scientific Perspective
Studies have validated LI 4’s analgesic properties. Functional MRI research shows that stimulation of LI 4 modulates pain-processing regions of the brain, particularly in the somatosensory cortex and limbic system. It has also been shown to reduce gastrointestinal transit time and promote anti-inflammatory responses via vagal activation. NIH Source