One of the most well-known and powerful acupressure points in Traditional Chinese Medicine is LI 4, also called Hegu, which means “Joining Valley.”
Why Is LI 4 So Famous?
LI 4 is like the Swiss Army knife of acupressure points. It’s known for its ability to relieve pain, reduce headaches, calm stress, and support immune health—all from one tiny spot on your hand. In fact, it’s so effective, it’s often one of the first points used in acupuncture treatments for a wide range of issues.
From tension headaches to toothaches, anxiety to digestive discomfort—LI 4 is a go-to point that helps bring your body back into balance.
Where Is It?
You’ll find LI 4 on the back of your hand, in the fleshy web between your thumb and index finger. To locate it, squeeze your thumb and index finger together—the highest point of the muscle that bulges out is where you’ll press. Gently press and massage that spot with the opposite thumb until you feel a slight ache or tenderness—that means you’ve got it!
What Does It Do?
LI 4 is widely used because of its broad range of benefits, including:
- Headache and migraine relief
- Jaw tension, toothaches, and sinus pain
- Stress and emotional tension
- Neck and shoulder tightness
- Boosting the immune system
- Helping with constipation or sluggish digestion
- Pain relief throughout the body
This point is known for its strong “moving” energy—meaning it gets things circulating again, whether it’s stuck emotions, tension, or energy in the body.
When to Use It
- During a headache or migraine
- When you feel jaw, face, or sinus tension
- To relieve neck or shoulder pain
- When feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or irritable
- To support digestion or immune health
- Before a big meeting, event, or travel to stay grounded and focused
Apply firm, steady pressure to LI 4 with your thumb for 30 seconds to 2 minutes while breathing deeply. You can repeat this a few times a day as needed.
When Not to Use It
LI 4 is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, unless specifically advised by a licensed practitioner. It is known to stimulate uterine contractions and is often used to help promote labor when the time is right.
Otherwise, it’s generally a safe and powerful self-care point to have in your toolkit.
Want to learn more about how acupressure and acupuncture can help relieve your pain and support your overall health? We’re here to help you feel your best—naturally.
