Outer Pass
外关 Wài Guān · TB-5
About TB-5 Outer Pass
TB-5 Waiguan is the luo-connecting point of the Triple Burner meridian and the confluent point of the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel), giving it a strategic role in releasing the body's exterior defenses and expelling wind-heat pathogens. Its name, 'Outer Pass,' directly contrasts with PC-6 Neiguan ('Inner Pass') located on the opposite side of the forearm. Together, these two points command the interior and exterior of the body like the inner and outer gates of a fortress.
The Triple Burner (San Jiao) is unique among the organ systems in TCM -- it has no physical organ but governs the waterways and qi transformation processes throughout the body's three regions (upper, middle, and lower burners). Its meridian traverses the shaoyang (lesser yang) region, which is the body's hinge between interior and exterior. When pathogens lodge in this hinge zone -- producing alternating fever and chills, one-sided headache, ear problems, and rib-side discomfort -- Waiguan is the primary point for resolving the conflict.
The point's connection to the Yang Wei Mai extends its influence to all the yang meridians, making it effective for conditions that affect multiple yang channels simultaneously -- the combination of headache, stiff neck, and ear symptoms that often accompanies wind-heat invasion. In self-care, pressing TB-5 and PC-6 simultaneously (squeezing the forearm) creates a potent interior-exterior treatment that both releases pathogens from the surface and calms the internal response.
How to Find This Point
This point is the mirror image of PC-6 on the back of the forearm. Measure two thumb-widths above the wrist crease on the back of the arm, between the two forearm bones. It sits directly opposite PC-6.
Technique
Press firmly with the thumb between the radius and ulna. Sustained pressure or deep circular motions. Can be pressed simultaneously with PC-6 by squeezing the forearm between thumb and fingers.
Pressure & Duration
Firm pressure for 1-2 minutes per side.
Benefits
Releases the exterior, expels wind-heat, benefits the ears, activates the channel, opens the Yang Linking Vessel, benefits the head
Indications
Common cold (wind-heat type), fever, headache, ear pain, tinnitus, deafness, wrist and forearm pain, stiff neck, rib-side pain, one-sided headache
TCM Actions
Releases the exterior, expels wind-heat, clears heat, benefits the ear, activates the channel, opens the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel), luo-connecting point of the Triple Burner meridian
Self-Care Use
Press on the back of the forearm, two thumb-widths above the wrist crease for colds with fever (especially when the throat is more sore than stuffy), ear problems, and temporal headaches. Can be pressed simultaneously with PC-6 on the opposite side of the forearm for a powerful combined effect on exterior conditions. 1-2 minutes per side.
Contraindications & Cautions
No major contraindications for acupressure. Generally safe for self-care use.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the TB-5 Outer Pass acupressure point located?
TB-5 Outer Pass (Wài Guān) is located at: On the dorsal aspect of the forearm, 2 cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease, between the radius and ulna, on the opposite side of the forearm from PC-6. This point is the mirror image of PC-6 on the back of the forearm. Measure two thumb-widths above the wrist crease on the back of the arm, between the two forearm bones. It sits directly opposite PC-6
How long should I press TB-5 Outer Pass?
Apply firm pressure to TB-5 for 1-2 minutes per side. Press firmly with the thumb between the radius and ulna. Sustained pressure or deep circular motions. Can be pressed simultaneously with PC-6 by squeezing the forearm between thumb and fingers.
What are the benefits of stimulating TB-5 Outer Pass?
Releases the exterior, expels wind-heat, benefits the ears, activates the channel, opens the Yang Linking Vessel, benefits the head
Is it safe to do acupressure on TB-5 at home?
Press on the back of the forearm, two thumb-widths above the wrist crease for colds with fever (especially when the throat is more sore than stuffy), ear problems, and temporal headaches. Can be press Cautions: No major contraindications for acupressure. Generally safe for self-care use.
Which meridian does TB-5 belong to?
TB-5 Outer Pass belongs to the Hand Shaoyang Triple Burner Meridian, which is associated with the Fire element. Its TCM actions include: Releases the exterior, expels wind-heat, clears heat, benefits the ear, activates the channel, opens the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel), luo-connecting point of the Triple Burner meridian