ST44 (Neiting / Inner Court) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
Professional acupuncture supplies and practical clinical resources for qualified practitioners in Ireland and across Europe.
ST44, known as Neiting (“Inner Court”), is located in the dorsum of the foot. This guide summarises the standard location, traditional functions, common combinations, anatomy and essential safety considerations.
This is a professional reference for appropriately trained practitioners. It is not a self-treatment guide and does not replace accredited anatomical and clinical training.
ST44 Neiting quick reference
| Point name | ST44 — Neiting (“Inner Court”) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Stomach channel |
| Classification | Ying-Spring and Water point of the Stomach channel |
| Region | Dorsum of the foot |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Core landmark | Between the second and third toes, just proximal to the web margin, in the depression distal and lateral to the second metatarsophalangeal joint. |
Location of ST44 Neiting
Between the second and third toes, just proximal to the web margin, in the depression distal and lateral to the second metatarsophalangeal joint.
Use proportional B-cun measurement together with palpation and individual anatomy. A fixed centimetre measurement is not a substitute for anatomical location.
Traditional functions of ST44
- Clears Heat from the Stomach channel.
- Harmonises the Stomach and Intestines.
- Regulates Qi and alleviates pain.
- Calms agitation associated with Stomach Heat in traditional pattern differentiation.
These descriptions belong to traditional acupuncture theory. They are not claims that ST44 has been proven to diagnose, prevent or treat disease.
Traditional clinical applications
- Facial, dental or throat symptoms where Stomach-channel Heat is part of the diagnosis.
- Epigastric discomfort, abdominal pain or bowel disturbance within an appropriate pattern.
- Pain or swelling affecting the second and third toes or dorsum of the foot.
Point selection should follow a complete assessment, differential diagnosis, informed consent and an individualised treatment plan.
Common point combinations
- ST44 + LI4: traditionally used to clear Yangming Heat affecting the face and mouth.
- ST44 + ST36: considered when regulating the Stomach and Intestines is part of the strategy.
- ST44 + LV3: a traditional pairing where constrained Qi and Heat coexist.
These are traditional examples rather than fixed prescriptions.
Anatomy and practitioner notes
The point lies in the interdigital soft tissues near dorsal digital nerves and vessels. Confirm the web margin and metatarsophalangeal joint rather than placing the point on bone.
Needling and essential safety
Use clean technique and conservative depth in the thin interdigital tissues. Avoid needling through infected, macerated, ulcerated or broken skin, and take additional care where circulation, sensation or wound healing is impaired.
Use sterile, single-use needles, appropriate skin preparation and a technique suited to the patient’s anatomy, health, medicines and treatment position. Stop and reassess if unexpected sharp, electrical or strongly radiating sensation occurs.
Frequently asked questions
Where is ST44 Neiting?
Between the second and third toes, just proximal to the web margin, in the depression distal and lateral to the second metatarsophalangeal joint.
What does Neiting mean?
Neiting is commonly translated as “Inner Court”. The English rendering helps explain the traditional name but does not replace the anatomical landmark.
Can patients use this guide for self-needling?
No. This resource is written for qualified practitioners and does not replace supervised anatomical and clinical training.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Visit our Acupuncture Point Guides, or read the ST36 Zusanli Guide and ST40 Fenglong Guide.
Practitioners can also browse our professional acupuncture needles and the wider Practitioner Guides library.
Professional disclaimer: This article is provided for qualified acupuncture and healthcare practitioners for general educational purposes. Traditional actions and applications describe established acupuncture theory and are not claims of proven clinical efficacy. It is not medical advice, does not replace accredited training and should not be used as a universal treatment protocol. Practitioners remain responsible for assessment, consent, safe technique, infection control, record keeping, referral and compliance with professional and legal obligations.
Reference standards and safety reading:
World Health Organization. WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region.
World Health Organization. Guidelines on Basic Training and Safety in Acupuncture.
Master Tung’s Acupuncture / eLotus CORE. ST44 Neiting reference page.
