KI7 (Fuliu / Returning Current) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
KI7 Fuliu is a jing-river; metal point of the Kidney channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | KI7 — Fuliu (Returning Current) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Kidney — Foot Shaoyin |
| Classification | Jing-River; Metal |
| Region | Posteromedial lower leg |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | On the inner-back lower leg, just anterior to the Achilles tendon, 2 B-cun above the medial malleolar prominence. |
Location of KI7 Fuliu
On the inner-back lower leg, just anterior to the Achilles tendon, 2 B-cun above the medial malleolar prominence.
Landmark sequence
- Expose the medial ankle and distal leg.
- Identify the medial malleolar prominence and Achilles tendon.
- Measure two proportional units proximally from malleolar prominence level.
- Locate the anterior tendon border and assess the soft tissue.
Where a B-cun measurement is given, use the patient’s proportional body measurement. It is not a fixed centimetre distance or a universal number of the practitioner’s finger breadths. Confirm the relevant landmarks by palpation before deciding on a technique.
Distinguishing nearby points
KI7 is 2 B-cun above the medial malleolus, anterior to the Achilles tendon. KI8 is at a similar level but more anterior, near the tibial border.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Supports Kidney Qi in traditional theory
- Regulates water passages and sweating
- Resolves Dampness
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for sweating or fluid-metabolism presentations within an appropriate Kidney pattern and for selected lower-leg or lumbar symptoms. Kidney-channel terminology should not be confused with a diagnosis of kidney disease.
These descriptions express traditional theory. They are not claims that this individual point has been proven to prevent or cure a medical condition. A symptom or channel label alone is insufficient to select a treatment.
Planning a point combination
Consider the treatment principle, local versus distal selection and the patient’s complete presentation. Related Project Lotus guides for comparison include KI3, SP9. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
Assess the Achilles border, superficial vessels and the medial ankle neurovascular region. Do not infer safe depth from the image or insert through inflamed tendon tissue.
- Inspect the skin and assess local tissue, circulation and sensation. Do not needle through infected, ulcerated, inflamed or otherwise unsuitable tissue.
- Review relevant surgery, injuries, implants, bleeding risk, medication, pregnancy and previous adverse reactions.
- Use sterile single-use needles, appropriate infection control and safe sharps disposal. Obtain informed consent and document the treatment.
- Choose angle, depth and stimulation from anatomical assessment and accredited training. This guide gives no universal insertion depth. Stop and reassess unexpected sharp pain, neurological symptoms or a concerning response.
When medical assessment takes priority
New unexplained oedema, marked reduction in urine, or swelling with breathlessness needs medical assessment. Persistent drenching night sweats warrant investigation.
Moxibustion
Moxa is not an automatic addition. Consider the traditional pattern, local anatomy and the practitioner’s training. Where heat is appropriate, assess sensation, skin condition, ventilation and the patient’s ability to report discomfort; supervise continuously and prevent burns.
Research note
Evidence concerning an acupuncture treatment or a multi-point protocol cannot be assigned automatically to this point alone. This guide does not claim an independently established clinical effect for KI7. Traditional functions and clinical evidence should be discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is this point bilateral?
Yes. The surface landmarks apply on both sides. Treatment laterality depends on assessment and the chosen clinical strategy.
Can the image replace palpation?
No. The image shows the landmark relationship schematically. Body proportions, tendon visibility and tissue depth vary, so trained examination remains essential.
Is this a self-needling guide?
No. It is an educational reference for qualified practitioners and does not replace professional training or medical assessment.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Browse our Acupuncture Point Guides and professional acupuncture needles.
Professional note: Educational material for qualified acupuncture practitioners. Individual assessment, consent, safe technique and appropriate referral remain the practitioner’s responsibility.
References: WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations, updated reprint 2009 (entry KI7); CEIMEC point atlas (cross-check; WHO takes precedence where descriptions differ); Joel Penner, American Dragon: traditional point reference; NCCIH: acupuncture evidence and safety. Checked 5 October 2026.
