Recover Flow
复溜 Fù Liū · KI-7
About KI-7 Recover Flow
KI-7 Fuliu is the jing-river point and Metal point of the Kidney meridian, giving it a unique role in regulating the Water Passages and controlling sweating. Its name, 'Recover Flow,' indicates its ability to restore the normal flow of fluids through the body -- resolving both the pathological accumulation (edema) and the pathological loss (excessive sweating) of body fluids.
Where KI-6 Zhaohai nourishes Kidney yin, KI-7 specifically tonifies Kidney yang -- the warming, activating force that drives the transformation and transportation of fluids. The Kidney's yang aspect controls the lower gate of water metabolism, determining how fluids are separated into clear (recycled) and turbid (excreted). When Kidney yang weakens, fluids accumulate as edema, urination becomes frequent but incomplete, and the lower body feels heavy and cold.
The sweating regulation function of KI-7 is particularly valued in clinical practice. In TCM, sweating is governed by the interaction of Lung qi (which controls the skin pores) and Kidney yang (which provides the warming force that opens and closes them). When Kidney yang is deficient, the pores lose their regulation -- producing spontaneous daytime sweating, night sweats, or both. KI-7 restores the Kidney's role in this partnership, firming the body's exterior and stopping pathological fluid loss through the skin.
How to Find This Point
Find KI-3 behind the inner ankle bone. Measure two thumb-widths straight up from there, along the front edge of the Achilles tendon. The point is in the soft tissue just in front of the tendon.
Technique
Press with the thumb along the front edge of the Achilles tendon, angling slightly posteriorly. Moderate sustained pressure or gentle circular kneading.
Pressure & Duration
Moderate pressure for 2-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Tonifies Kidney yang, regulates sweating, resolves edema, strengthens the lower back, benefits the Bladder
Indications
Edema, spontaneous sweating, night sweats, diarrhea from Kidney yang deficiency, lower back pain, leg weakness, urinary disorders, abdominal distension
TCM Actions
Tonifies Kidney yang, regulates the Water Passages, resolves edema, regulates sweating, strengthens the lumbar region, jing-river point of the Kidney meridian
Self-Care Use
Press above the inner ankle along the Achilles tendon for water retention, swollen legs, and night sweats. This point specifically tonifies Kidney yang -- the warming, transforming aspect of the Kidney that drives fluid metabolism. If you tend to feel cold, retain water, or have loose stools with undigested food, KI-7 can help restore the Kidney's fire. Press 2-3 minutes per side.
Contraindications & Cautions
No major contraindications for acupressure. Use care around the Achilles tendon if there is tendinitis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the KI-7 Recover Flow acupressure point located?
KI-7 Recover Flow (Fù Liū) is located at: On the medial aspect of the lower leg, 2 cun superior to KI-3 (Taixi), on the anterior border of the Achilles tendon. Find KI-3 behind the inner ankle bone. Measure two thumb-widths straight up from there, along the front edge of the Achilles tendon. The point is in the soft tissue just in front of the tendon.
How long should I press KI-7 Recover Flow?
Apply moderate pressure to KI-7 for 2-3 minutes per side. Press with the thumb along the front edge of the Achilles tendon, angling slightly posteriorly. Moderate sustained pressure or gentle circular kneading.
What are the benefits of stimulating KI-7 Recover Flow?
Tonifies Kidney yang, regulates sweating, resolves edema, strengthens the lower back, benefits the Bladder
Is it safe to do acupressure on KI-7 at home?
Press above the inner ankle along the Achilles tendon for water retention, swollen legs, and night sweats. This point specifically tonifies Kidney yang -- the warming, transforming aspect of the Kidne Cautions: No major contraindications for acupressure. Use care around the Achilles tendon if there is tendinitis.
Which meridian does KI-7 belong to?
KI-7 Recover Flow belongs to the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian, which is associated with the Metal (jing-river point of Water meridian) element. Its TCM actions include: Tonifies Kidney yang, regulates the Water Passages, resolves edema, regulates sweating, strengthens the lumbar region, jing-river point of the Kidney meridian