What the Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian Taught Me — A Meridian That Supports Digestion, Absorption, and Women's Health — Friday, July 10, 2026 (Reiwa 8)

Today, I reviewed the Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian, the fourth of the Twelve Primary Meridians.

The Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian begins on the inner side of the big toe, travels along the inside of the foot, the lower leg, and the inner thigh, then continues through the abdomen and chest before reaching the side of the body near the armpit.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen does not refer to the anatomical spleen as understood in modern medicine.

Instead, it represents a functional system responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, fluid metabolism, and the production of Qi and Blood. It is regarded as one of the body's most important organ systems.

For this reason, many acupuncture points along this meridian are used to improve digestive function and reduce fluid retention.

Today, I reviewed four of its most representative acupuncture points.

The first is Sanyinjiao (SP6).

Located about four finger-widths above the inner ankle along the inner border of the tibia, its name means "the meeting point of the three Yin meridians."

It is widely used for conditions such as cold sensitivity, edema, menstrual pain, and irregular menstruation, and is often called one of the most important acupuncture points for women's health.

When I worked as an acupuncturist, it was one of the points I used most frequently.

I also remember a senior acupuncturist who became a first-time mother later in life. With her physician's approval, she continued moxibustion on Sanyinjiao until just before giving birth, and she later told us that she had a remarkably smooth delivery. That story has stayed with me ever since.

The second point is Taibai (SP3).

Located near the base of the big toe, it is commonly used for indigestion, stomach discomfort, and poor digestive function.

I remember using this point in clinical practice for a variety of conditions, making it one of the acupuncture points I relied on most often.

The third point is Gongsun (SP4).

It is located slightly toward the heel from Taibai and is frequently used for abdominal fullness, nausea, loss of appetite, and other digestive complaints.

Since the Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian is closely related to digestion and absorption, many of its acupuncture points focus on supporting the digestive system.

The fourth point is Yinlingquan (SP9).

It can be found by tracing the inner border of the tibia upward until your finger naturally rests in a depression just below the knee.

Although it may be difficult to locate at first, it becomes much easier with practice.

This point promotes fluid metabolism and is often used for swelling in the legs, knee pain, and diarrhea.

Because I have occasional knee problems myself, I still pay attention to this point whenever I feel discomfort after swimming the breaststroke.

As I continue reviewing the meridians, memories from my student days and my years working as an acupuncturist gradually return.

Each acupuncture point has not only a name but also a unique meaning and function, reminding me how every part of the body is connected.

Once again, I have come to appreciate that Traditional Chinese Medicine is not simply about treating symptoms—it is a holistic system that seeks harmony throughout the entire person.

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