PC8 (Laogong / Palace of Toil) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
PC8 Laogong is a ying-spring; fire point of the Pericardium channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | PC8 — Laogong (Palace of Toil) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Pericardium — Hand Jueyin |
| Classification | Ying-Spring; Fire |
| Region | Palm |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | On the palm, between the second and third metacarpals, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints. |
Location of PC8 Laogong
On the palm, between the second and third metacarpals, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints.
Landmark sequence
- Support the open palm.
- Identify the second and third metacarpal shafts and heads.
- Locate their interval proximal to the knuckles.
- Use gentle finger flexion only as a supplementary check, then confirm the bony landmarks.
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
This draft uses the WHO primary second–third metacarpal location. WHO also records an alternative third–fourth metacarpal location; the image must not mix the two.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Clears Pericardium and Heart Heat in traditional theory
- Calms the Shen
- Harmonises the Stomach
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for Heat-related agitation, mouth symptoms and local palm presentations. Historical emergency indications should not be interpreted as a first-aid protocol.
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 PC6, HT7. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
The palm contains flexor tendons, digital nerves, vessels and palmar arches. It is sensitive and demands controlled, anatomically informed technique.
- 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
Collapse, heatstroke or a new neurological deficit requires emergency care. Persistent mouth ulcers, especially with a lump or unexplained bleeding, need assessment.
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 PC8. 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 PC8); 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.
