Every acupuncturist has a handful of points that really resonates with them and which they use frequently. Out of those points, there is typically a favorite point, a point that is simply the acupuncturist’s jam. Let me tell you about mine: it is GB (Gallbladder) 41. If you’ve had a treatment from me, the likelihood that you have received this point is very high. This dynamic point, and its ability to treat so many different things, fuels my passion for it.

GB41 is located on the lateral aspect of the foot. The indications of any given acupuncture point is often closely related with the location of its meridian, or pathway,in the body. Looking at the diagram of the gallbladder meridian, you can easily see why it is indicated for migraines & headaches (especially in the temples and behind the eyes), ears, eyes, shoulders, hips, lateral knees and IT band issues. Besides being closely linked with their respective meridian, indications of acupuncture points are also closely linked with the indications of their respective organ, in this case the Gallbladder. To clarify, when we say Gallbladder in Chinese medicine, it is not the same as the gallbladder that you are acquainted with in Western medicine. The Gallbladder in Chinese medicine, because of its close ties with the Liver organ, has a lot of ties with internal things such as quality of sleep (i.e. restless sleep, waking up in the night), emotions (i.e. stress), menstruation and even digestion.

GB41 is additionally unique because of its access to an extraordinary meridian called the Dai meridian. You can see that the Dai (or belt) meridian wraps all the way around the waist. This allows GB41 to be used to treat low back pain, hips, pelvic pain, abdominal pain and digestion, as well as issues related to menstruation and fertility.

In today’s hectic and stressful world, likely you have one, if not multiple, indications for this beloved point. Experience it yourself in-clinic or use self acupressure on GB41 at home. Just use your thumb to find this point and dig into its nook, applying pressure for a few minutes at a time. Perhaps, you will learn to love GB41 (almost) as much as I do.

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Alexandra McElwee, L.Ac., Mend Acupuncturist
Alexandra’s ambition in life, and in the clinic, is to be as present and compassionate as possible. Aside from connecting with patients and helping to relieve pain, Alexandra loves being the facilitator of ‘adult naptime’ as an acupuncturist. As patients blissfully doze during their treatments, it is a beautiful reminder that we are all truly human beings, not human doers. Alexandra can be seen in both Remington and Lutherville. To see her availability, you can check out the online schedule or call our office at 410-235-1776.