Broken Sequence
列缺 Liè Quē · LU-7
About LU-7 Broken Sequence
LU-7 Lieque is arguably the single most important point on the Lung meridian and one of the most frequently used points in all of acupuncture. It holds multiple overlapping functions that make it extraordinarily versatile: it is the luo-connecting point of the Lung (linking it to the Large Intestine meridian), the confluent point of the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai), and one of the Four Command Points for the head and nape of the neck.
The name 'Broken Sequence' refers to the way the Lung meridian pathway splits at this point, with a branch diverging to connect with the Large Intestine meridian and another branch running to the thenar eminence. This branching quality gives Lieque its exceptional range -- it can treat Lung organ problems, Large Intestine issues, head and neck conditions, and imbalances of the entire Ren Mai (which governs yin throughout the body).
As a Wind point, LU-7 is the primary choice for the earliest stages of wind-cold invasion -- the initial headache, chills, stiff neck, and runny nose that signal a cold is taking hold. Pressing this point firmly at the very first sign of illness, combined with rest and warm fluids, can often prevent a cold from developing further. Its connection to the Ren Mai also makes it valuable for menstrual irregularities, urinary dysfunction, and throat conditions, particularly when paired with KI-6 Zhaohai.
How to Find This Point
Cross your thumbs with one hand over the other, index fingers extended. Where the tip of the index finger naturally falls on the opposite wrist, in the groove above the bony bump (styloid process) on the thumb side -- that is LU-7. Alternatively, measure about 1.5 finger-widths above your wrist crease on the thumb side.
Technique
Press obliquely toward the elbow with the thumbnail or fingertip. The point responds well to firm, sustained pressure. Some practitioners prefer pressing while gently flexing and extending the wrist.
Pressure & Duration
Firm pressure for 1-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Opens the Lung, releases the exterior, expels wind, benefits the head and neck, opens the Conception Vessel, regulates the Water Passages
Indications
Common cold, headache (especially occipital), stiff neck, cough, asthma, sore throat, facial paralysis, wrist pain, urinary issues
TCM Actions
Releases the exterior, expels wind, promotes Lung qi descending and dispersing, benefits the head and nape, opens and regulates the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai), opens the Water Passages, luo-connecting point of the Lung meridian
Self-Care Use
One of the most versatile self-care acupressure points. Press firmly at the first sign of a cold -- headache, sniffles, scratchy throat, stiff neck. Also excellent for tension headaches at the back of the head. Cross your hands and use the index finger tip to find the groove above the wrist bone, then press firmly for 2-3 minutes per side.
Contraindications & Cautions
Generally safe for self-care use. Avoid aggressive pressing directly on the radial artery. Use gentle pressure during pregnancy as this point can promote labor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the LU-7 Broken Sequence acupressure point located?
LU-7 Broken Sequence (Liè Quē) is located at: On the radial aspect of the forearm, superior to the styloid process of the radius, 1.5 cun proximal to the transverse wrist crease, in the cleft between the tendons of brachioradialis and abductor pollicis longus. Cross your thumbs with one hand over the other, index fingers extended. Where the tip of the index finger naturally falls on the opposite wrist, in the groove above the bony bump (styloid process) on
How long should I press LU-7 Broken Sequence?
Apply firm pressure to LU-7 for 1-3 minutes per side. Press obliquely toward the elbow with the thumbnail or fingertip. The point responds well to firm, sustained pressure. Some practitioners prefer pressing while gently flexing and extending the wrist.
What are the benefits of stimulating LU-7 Broken Sequence?
Opens the Lung, releases the exterior, expels wind, benefits the head and neck, opens the Conception Vessel, regulates the Water Passages
Is it safe to do acupressure on LU-7 at home?
One of the most versatile self-care acupressure points. Press firmly at the first sign of a cold -- headache, sniffles, scratchy throat, stiff neck. Also excellent for tension headaches at the back of Cautions: Generally safe for self-care use. Avoid aggressive pressing directly on the radial artery. Use gentle pressure during pregnancy as this point can prom
Which meridian does LU-7 belong to?
LU-7 Broken Sequence belongs to the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian, which is associated with the Metal element. Its TCM actions include: Releases the exterior, expels wind, promotes Lung qi descending and dispersing, benefits the head and nape, opens and regulates the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai), opens the Water Passages, luo-connectin