ST41 (Jiexi / Ravine Divide) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
ST41 Jiexi is a jing-river; fire point of the Stomach channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | ST41 — Jiexi (Ravine Divide) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Stomach — Foot Yangming |
| Classification | Jing-River; Fire |
| Region | Anterior ankle |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | At the front of the ankle joint, in the depression between the extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus tendons. |
Location of ST41 Jiexi
At the front of the ankle joint, in the depression between the extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus tendons.
Landmark sequence
- Support the foot and identify the anterior ankle joint.
- Ask for gentle ankle and toe movement to distinguish the extensor tendons.
- Locate the hollow between the great-toe and lesser-toe extensor tendons.
- Confirm that the point is at ankle level, not farther down the foot.
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
ST41 is between the anterior ankle extensor tendons. ST42 lies more distally on the dorsum of the foot and is associated with the dorsalis pedis pulse.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Clears Heat from the Stomach channel
- Activates the channel and eases pain
- Calms the Shen in traditional theory
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for anterior ankle discomfort, restricted movement and selected Stomach-channel Heat presentations. Assessment should distinguish a channel presentation from acute structural injury.
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 ST36, ST44. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
Anterior tibial vessels and the deep fibular nerve are relevant deep structures. Avoid direct neurovascular injury and uncontrolled insertion towards the joint.
- 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
An ankle deformity, inability to bear weight after injury, or a hot swollen joint with fever requires medical 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 ST41. 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 ST41); 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.
