If you’ve ever been on a university campus or in a human resources office, you’ve probably heard debates about specialists versus generalists. Specialists focus on a single area with great precision, while generalists have broad skills and flexibility. Interestingly, this distinction also applies to acupoints in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Some acupoints are used for very specific symptom patterns, while others are mainstays in many treatment protocols because of their wide-ranging benefits. Lie Que (Broken Sequence, LU7), located right above your wrist, is one of those versatile points. If you or someone you know needs an acupoint that addresses a variety of everyday issues, Broken Sequence is one worth remembering.
Respected for Its Range
Lie Que was first mentioned in the “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”), one of the classical TCM texts centered around acupuncture theory. Its strong reputation is backed by the roles it plays within the TCM system.
To understand what makes this point special, consider its titles:
- It’s a Luo-connecting point, meaning it forms an energetic bridge between the Lung meridian and its paired Large Intestine meridian. This dual function enables it to address conditions that involve both systems, such as cold or flu with abdominal pain or diarrhea.
- It’s the master point of the Conception Vessel, one of the extraordinary meridians responsible for reproductive function and hormonal regulation. Lie Que’s influence on the Conception Vessel makes it valuable in treatment plans for infertility, impotence, irregular menstruation, or even a general lack of libido.
- It’s the Command Point for the head and neck, making it a primary tool for treating headaches, stiff neck, and facial paralysis.
In clinical terms, practitioners reach for Lie Que when symptoms impact multiple systems.
Modern Research Is Paying Attention
Increasingly, clinical research examines the biological impact of acupoints. Lie Que is one of the better-studied examples thanks to its multi-functional nature.
In one study involving healthy volunteers, acupuncture at Lie Que raised skin temperature across both the Lung and Large Intestine meridians—something a nearby acupoint on the same meridian couldn’t replicate. This supports the claim that Lie Que communicates across systems by accessing both meridians.
Another study highlighted how Lie Que can help in real-world medical situations. Patients with lung injury caused by severe acute pancreatitis were split into three groups. One group received standard medical treatment only, the second group received standard treatment plus electroacupuncture at random, non-therapeutic points, and the third group received standard treatment plus electroacupuncture at Lie Que (LU7), Chize (LU5), and Zusanli (ST36).
The third group showed better oxygen levels in their blood and lower amounts of substances linked to inflammation—such as TNF-α—along with higher levels of protective substances—such as IL-10. These results suggest that using Lie Que as part of treatment can help reduce lung inflammation and support recovery.
How to Locate and Stimulate Lie Que
To find Lie Que, measure about two finger widths above your wrist crease, close to the bony edge on the thumb side of your forearm. An easier way is to cross your hands by bringing the bases of your thumbs together. You’ll find that the index finger rests on the opposite hand’s wrist on the thumb side. The tip of your index finger is roughly the spot for Lie Que. You’ll know you’re in the right place if the area feels sore or tender when pressed.
Ways to Stimulate Lie Que
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture, gua sha (scraping), or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy using dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid stimulating this point if you have a recent wrist injury. If you’re using patches, opt for ones without harsh ingredients that could irritate sensitive skin.
A Point Worth Remembering
With more than 300 acupoints on the body, acupressure enthusiasts leave it to the professionals to memorize them all—but some points are worth keeping top of mind. Lie Que is definitely one of them—it’s easy to locate, effective for a range of symptoms, and proven to interact with multiple systems. Whether you’re treating a stiff neck, getting rid of a cold that hits your stomach too, or seeking holistic support for fertility, this is one point you don’t want to overlook.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
