Cubit Marsh (LU-5) Pressure Point: Benefits & Technique

LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Chize) is an acupressure point located in the elbow crease on the thumb-side (radial side) of the biceps tendon, and it is most commonly used to support cough and wheezing patterns (including asthma-like tightness) and to ease local elbow pain. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), LU-5 (Chize) belongs to the Lung (LU) meridian and is classically described as the He-Sea and Water point, meaning it is often selected to “clear” excess conditions along the channel and help direct Lung Qi downward. In practice, the Cubit Marsh pressure point is referenced for sore throat and phlegm-heat presentations as well as for pain and restriction around the elbow crease.

Summary Table

Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions

Cough is the most common reason people look up LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Chize). Clinically, I think of this point as a “reset” at the elbow crease for Lung channel excess patterns, especially when symptoms feel hot, thick, or congested.

From a TCM perspective, LU-5 is frequently chosen when Lung Qi is not descending smoothly. When Lung Qi rebels upward, a person may experience cough, wheezing, chest tightness, or throat irritation. LU-5 is also used when Heat signs are present, such as yellow phlegm, thirst, a sore throat, or a feeling of agitation in the chest. In classical point theory, He-Sea points are often used for counterflow Qi and for conditions that move from the channel into deeper physiology, which matches how LU-5 is traditionally applied for phlegm-heat cough or wheezing.

In modern terms, the Cubit Marsh pressure point sits in a region rich in superficial nerves and soft tissue structures near the biceps tendon and forearm flexors. Stimulating it may help by:

• Modulating local pain signals in the elbow crease (helpful in tendon irritation patterns)
• Reducing protective muscle tone around the elbow and forearm
• Supporting relaxation and breathing comfort through autonomic downshifting (often reported with acupressure generally)

Common patterns and when LU-5 is considered

• Cough with thick phlegm or “heat” signs: LU-5 is commonly paired with points that release the exterior and regulate the throat, such as LU-7 Lieque and LI-4 Hegu.
• Wheezing/chest tightness: Consider combining LU-5 with LU-1 Zhongfu to support Lung Qi at the chest level, and REN-17 Shanzhong for a “gathering Qi” chest-support approach.
• Sore throat and throat heat: LU-5 is often used with LU-11 Shaoshang and LI-11 Quchi in Heat-type presentations.
• Elbow pain and restricted motion: LU-5 can be used as a local point near the tendon and crease, and it pairs naturally with LI-11 Quchi and LI-10 Shousanli for elbow and forearm discomfort.

Important clinical note: if someone has severe shortness of breath, blue lips, chest pain, high fever, coughing blood, or an asthma attack that is not responding to prescribed medication, acupressure should be considered supportive only, and urgent medical evaluation is appropriate.

Exact Location & How to Find It

LU-5 (Chize), the Cubit Marsh pressure point, is on the front of the elbow crease, on the thumb-side (radial side) of the prominent biceps tendon.

You will get the most accurate location when the elbow is slightly bent and the palm faces upward. This position makes the biceps tendon easier to see and feel.

How to find LU-5 (Chize) step-by-step

1. Turn your palm up (supination) and bend your elbow slightly to about a relaxed half-bend.
2. With your opposite hand, feel the elbow crease (the main horizontal crease at the front of the elbow).
3. Locate the biceps tendon: it feels like a firm cord running into the crease, slightly toward the center of the arm.
4. Move your fingertip one finger-width toward the thumb side of that tendon.
5. You should feel a small, soft depression in the crease. That tender “dip” is typically LU-5.

Common mistakes when locating Cubit Marsh (LU-5)

• Pressing directly on the biceps tendon: this can feel sharp and is not the point.
• Pressing too far toward the outer elbow bone: you may end up on the edge of the joint line rather than the crease depression.
• Pressing on a visible vein in the elbow crease: adjust slightly to avoid compressing superficial veins.

This pressure point is featured in over 70 evidence-based protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app, which shows you exactly where to press with visual guides and audio instructions. Download the free app here.

How to Stimulate LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Step-by-Step)

Use a steady, comfortable pressure. The goal is a “good sore” or heavy sensation, not sharp pain. LU-5 is typically worked on both arms unless one elbow is too sensitive, injured, or recently treated medically.

1. Preparation

   • Sit with your forearm supported on a table or armrest.
   • Turn the palm up and slightly bend the elbow.
   • Take 2 slow nasal breaths to settle your breathing.

2. Locate the point

   • Find the biceps tendon in the elbow crease.
   • Slide one finger-width toward the thumb side into the depression (LU-5).

3. Finger position

   • Use the thumb pad of your opposite hand.
   • If your thumb tires, use a knuckle (index finger knuckle) with gentle control.

4. Direction of pressure

   • Press inward and slightly backward toward the center of the elbow crease (perpendicular into the soft depression).
   • Avoid sliding across the skin; aim for a stable contact.

5. Pressure level and sensation

   • Start light, then increase to moderate to firm over 2–3 breaths.
   • Normal sensations include dull ache, heaviness, warmth, or a mild radiating feeling into the forearm.
   • If you feel sharp pain, tingling that persists, or strong throbbing, reduce pressure or stop.

6. Duration

   • Hold steady pressure for 30–45 seconds, then make small circles for 30–60 seconds.
   • Total time: 1–3 minutes per side.

7. Breathing coordination

   • On the inhale, keep pressure steady.
   • On the exhale, slightly deepen pressure (about 10–20%) and relax the shoulder.

8. Frequency and best times

   • For cough or throat irritation: 2–3 times daily for several days.
   • For elbow discomfort: once daily plus after activity, as tolerated.
   • Many people prefer LU-5 in the late afternoon or evening when chest tightness can feel more noticeable.

Useful combinations (choose based on your goal)

• For cough with chills or early cold signs: add LU-7 Lieque and LI-4 Hegu.
• For phlegm and chest fullness: add ST-40 Fenglong and REN-17 Shanzhong.
• For elbow pain and tight forearm: add LI-11 Quchi and LI-10 Shousanli.

Benefits and Common Uses

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Pain Relief

LU-5 (Cubit Marsh) is a practical local point for the front-of-elbow crease, especially when discomfort tracks along the biceps tendon or the inner elbow soft tissue.

How it’s used:

• Elbow ache or strain patterns: Pressing LU-5 may help reduce local tenderness and improve comfortable flexion/extension.
• Channel-related arm pain: In meridian terms, LU-5 can be used when pain follows the Lung channel line down the anterior-lateral arm.

If pain is more lateral or involves gripping fatigue, I often pair LU-5 with LI-10 Shousanli and LI-11 Quchi. If neck and shoulder tension is contributing to breathing restriction, adding GB-21 Jianjing (with appropriate caution) may be considered.

Digestive/Organ Support (when relevant in TCM)

LU-5 is not primarily a digestive point, but classical sources associate it with Water functions and “water passages.” In TCM language, the Lung helps regulate water metabolism and disperses fluids. When fluid movement is impaired, phlegm can accumulate and aggravate cough.

In practice, if someone has phlegm-heavy cough with a feeling of dampness, LU-5 may be included alongside phlegm-transforming and fluid-regulating points such as ST-40 Fenglong and SP-9 Yinlingquan. If there is lower abdominal fluid retention or urinary discomfort patterns being addressed within a TCM framework, some practitioners also consider REN-3 Zhongji.

Emotional & Mental Wellbeing (supportive, not a stand-alone treatment)

Breath and emotion are closely linked. When the chest feels tight, people often report worry, grief, or agitation. While LU-5 is not a primary “spirit-calming” point, it may be included to support easier breathing and a sense of release in the upper body.

For a more direct calming approach, I commonly pair LU-5 with PC-6 Neiguan (especially if there is chest fluttering or nausea) and HT-7 Shenmen.

Other Traditional Uses

Traditional indications for LU-5 include:

• Sore throat and throat heat patterns (often paired with LU-11 Shaoshang)
• Wheezing and dyspnea patterns (often paired with LU-1 Zhongfu)
• Heat-type presentations with agitation and thick phlegm (often paired with LI-11 Quchi)

Physiological Functions & Mechanisms

TCM framework (what LU-5 is “doing”)

LU-5 is the He-Sea point of the Lung meridian, and He-Sea points are traditionally used to treat counterflow Qi, deeper organ-related patterns, and stubborn excess conditions along the channel. As the Water point, LU-5 is classically associated with clearing Heat and supporting fluid regulation.

Common TCM actions assigned to LU-5 include:

• Clearing Lung Heat and reducing phlegm-heat presentations
• Redirecting rebellious Lung Qi downward (supporting cough and wheezing patterns)
• Relaxing the sinews and opening the channel in the elbow region

This is one reason LU-5 is frequently discussed alongside other Lung channel points nearer the chest and wrist, such as LU-1 Zhongfu and LU-7 Lieque, depending on whether the goal is to address the “root” (breathing pattern) or the “branch” (throat irritation, cough reflex, or local arm pain).

Modern physiological interpretations (what may be happening)

Direct clinical trials on LU-5 specifically are limited, but several mechanisms are plausible based on what we know about acupressure and acupuncture more broadly:

• Somatosensory input and pain modulation: Pressure stimulation activates mechanoreceptors and may influence pain processing through spinal gating and descending inhibitory pathways. This is relevant for elbow pain and for the perception of chest tightness.
• Autonomic regulation: Acupressure and acupuncture have been associated in research with shifts in autonomic activity (often discussed as increased parasympathetic tone), which may help some people feel their breathing is easier. Evidence varies by condition and study design.
• Myofascial effects near the elbow crease: LU-5 lies near the biceps tendon and forearm flexor mass. Gentle sustained pressure may reduce local protective tone and improve comfortable movement.
• Reflexive breathing comfort: Many people unconsciously breathe shallowly when the upper limb and shoulder girdle are tense. A short acupressure routine that includes LU-5 plus chest-support points like REN-17 Shanzhong may support a more relaxed breathing pattern.

For standardized point location, many clinicians reference WHO acupuncture point location standards, which helps keep LU-5 identification consistent across educational settings.

Practitioner Insight (first-person allowed here only)

When a client comes to me with a cough that feels “stuck” in the chest, one of the first points I reach for is LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Chize), especially if they describe yellow phlegm, throat heat, or a rough, irritated feeling in the airway. In those presentations, LU-5 often feels distinctly tender compared with the opposite arm, and that tenderness can guide pressure dosage.

A practical tip that isn’t emphasized enough: I rarely start with firm pressure immediately. I begin with 15–20 seconds of very light contact while the client takes slower exhales. Then I increase to moderate pressure and hold steady. This tends to reduce guarding around the biceps tendon and makes the point easier to work without provoking sharp discomfort.

For elbow pain, LU-5 is most useful to me when pain is centered in the crease itself or near the tendon line. If the pain is more on the outer elbow, LU-5 can still be supportive, but I usually prioritize LI-11 Quchi and LI-10 Shousanli and treat LU-5 as an add-on for soft tissue ease.

Safety & Contraindications

LU-5 is generally safe for self-acupressure when used with moderate pressure and good technique, but the elbow crease contains superficial veins and sensitive structures, so precision matters.

Use caution or avoid LU-5 acupressure if you have:

• Open cuts, rash, eczema flare, infection, or inflamed skin at the elbow crease
• Phlebitis, prominent varicose veins, or easy bruising in the area
• Bleeding disorders or you take anticoagulant/antiplatelet medication (press lightly and avoid aggressive techniques)
• Recent IV line, blood draw, surgery, or injection at the elbow crease (wait until fully healed)
• Numbness, nerve symptoms, or radiating pain that increases with pressure (stop and get assessed)

Pregnancy

There is no widely cited pregnancy-specific prohibition for LU-5 in acupressure, but pregnancy can change tissue sensitivity and circulation. If pregnant, use gentle pressure only, avoid prolonged intense sessions, and coordinate care with your clinician or a licensed acupuncturist.

Respiratory red flags (do not self-treat)

Seek urgent care for severe shortness of breath, lips turning blue/gray, chest pain, fainting, high fever, or worsening asthma symptoms not responding to prescribed medication.

For broader guidance, review our acupressure safety guide and browse additional technique articles in the acupressure section. As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.

Related Points & Point Combinations

Use these combinations to match the most common goals for LU-5. Every point below can be pressed for 30–60 seconds per side, cycling through 2–3 rounds.

• LU-7 Lieque + LU-5 (Cubit Marsh) — often used for cough patterns where the throat and chest both feel involved; LU-7 is frequently chosen to support the Lung channel’s dispersing function.
• LU-1 Zhongfu + LU-5 — combines a chest-front Lung point with an elbow He-Sea point for chest tightness and phlegm sensations.
• LI-4 Hegu + LI-11 Quchi + LU-5 — a common Heat-type combination framework in TCM-informed acupressure (use with caution if you tend toward coldness or deficiency).
• ST-40 Fenglong + LU-5 — often selected when phlegm is prominent (thick sputum, chest congestion).
• REN-17 Shanzhong + PC-6 Neiguan + LU-5 — a supportive combo for chest tightness with anxious breathing or nausea.
• SP-9 Yinlingquan + REN-3 Zhongji + LU-5 — used in TCM-style protocols when fluid retention or damp patterns are part of the presentation.

Adjunct methods that pair well with LU-5:

• Slow nasal breathing with longer exhales (1–2 minutes)
• Gentle tapping along the Lung channel line of the arm
• Warm compress to the forearm flexors (avoid heat if the area is visibly inflamed)

Explore more sessions with Cubit Marsh (LU-5) in our Pressure Points Guide App

What the Research Says

There are limited modern trials that isolate LU-5 (Chize) alone, which is common in acupuncture research because studies typically use multi-point prescriptions. That said, broader evidence on acupuncture/acupressure for respiratory symptoms and pain helps contextualize why LU-5 is included in traditional protocols.

• A 2020 evidence map of acupuncture for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) suggested acupuncture may improve quality of life and symptoms, though study quality varied and protocols used multiple points rather than LU-5 alone (see the abstract on PubMed via research on acupuncture for COPD).
• A 2017 NIH/NCCIH overview notes that acupuncture is commonly used for pain conditions and that evidence is strongest for certain pain types; results depend on condition and study design (review: NCCIH acupuncture overview).
• A large individual patient data meta-analysis (updated over time) has reported acupuncture outperforming sham and usual care for several chronic pain conditions, with modest-to-moderate effect sizes; point prescriptions varied and were not LU-5-specific (summary accessible through acupuncture for chronic pain evidence).

How to interpret this for LU-5:

• Evidence supports acupuncture/acupressure as a reasonable adjunct for some pain and symptom-relief goals.
• It does not prove that LU-5 alone treats asthma or cough, and it should not replace guideline-based respiratory care.
• LU-5 remains strongly supported by traditional usage, anatomical plausibility for local elbow pain, and inclusion in multi-point respiratory protocols.

FAQs

FAQs

What does the Cubit Marsh pressure point (LU-5) do?

LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Chize) is traditionally used to help calm cough and wheezing patterns, clear Heat-type throat irritation, and ease pain at the elbow crease. In TCM it is a Lung meridian He-Sea point often chosen when Lung Qi is not descending smoothly. For cough routines, LU-5 is commonly paired with LU-7 Lieque or LU-1 Zhongfu depending on whether symptoms feel more throat- or chest-centered.

Where exactly is Cubit Marsh (LU-5) located?

Cubit Marsh (LU-5) is in the front elbow crease, in a small depression just to the thumb side of the biceps tendon with the palm facing up and the elbow slightly bent. If you press directly on the tendon, you are too central; move about one finger-width toward the thumb side. For nearby Lung channel references on the same meridian, see Cloud Gate (LU-2) Yunmen and Heavenly Palace (LU-3) Tianfu.

How often should I press LU-5?

Most people can press LU-5 for 1–3 minutes per side, 2–3 times daily for a few days when symptoms are active, then reduce to once daily as needed. If the point bruises easily or feels irritated, switch to lighter pressure and shorter holds. For cough support, rotate LU-5 with REN-17 Shanzhong to avoid overworking the elbow crease.

Is LU-5 safe during pregnancy?

LU-5 is generally considered a low-risk point for gentle acupressure in pregnancy, but research is not specific and individual risk varies. Use light pressure, avoid long intense sessions, and coordinate with your prenatal clinician if you have complications. If you are using LU-5 for chest tightness or nausea, consider gentle pairing with PC-6 Neiguan rather than strong stimulation at multiple points.

Can I use LU-5 for asthma or shortness of breath?

LU-5 may help some people feel temporary relief of chest tightness or wheezing sensations, but it is not a substitute for an inhaler or medical asthma care. If you have diagnosed asthma, use LU-5 as supportive care alongside your prescribed plan. Many people combine LU-5 with LU-1 Zhongfu and ST-40 Fenglong when phlegm and congestion are prominent, while monitoring symptoms carefully.

Why does LU-5 feel tender when I press it?

Tenderness at LU-5 is common because the elbow crease contains sensitive soft tissue near the biceps tendon and superficial veins. Mild soreness can be normal, especially if there is local overuse of the forearm or if you are tense through the upper limb. Reduce pressure if you feel sharp pain or lingering tingling, and consider balancing with a gentler distal point like LU-9 Taiyuan if the area is reactive.

Key takeaways

• LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Chize) is located in the front elbow crease, thumb-side of the biceps tendon.
• The Cubit Marsh pressure point is most often used for cough, wheezing/asthma-like tightness, sore throat (Heat-type), and elbow pain.
• Use moderate, steady pressure for 1–3 minutes per side, and avoid pressing directly on superficial veins.
• Combine thoughtfully with points like LU-7 Lieque, LI-11 Quchi, and ST-40 Fenglong based on symptoms.
• Seek medical care for severe or worsening respiratory symptoms.

Used precisely, LU-5 is a reliable reference point in the Lung meridian toolkit: local enough to address elbow crease pain, and classically important enough to appear in many protocols for cough, phlegm-heat, and wheezing patterns.

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