How is the Ba Xie point defined?

The Ba Xie point, which translates to "Eight Pathogens," is traditionally located at the webbing between the fingers. This anatomical location is significant because it encompasses areas that correspond to the various pathways and energy channels associated with the fingers, allowing practitioners to target ailments related to the hands, such as pain, stiffness, or conditions caused by pathogens affecting the upper extremities.

This point is often used in acupuncture to help disperse heat and alleviate conditions like arthritis or other inflammatory issues in the hand and fingers. Its precise location at the webbing ensures that the treatment effectively targets areas where energy can be influenced, making it a valuable point in an acupuncturist's arsenal.

The other definitions provided do not accurately match the traditional understanding of the Ba Xie point, as they refer to different anatomical landmarks not specific to this particular acupuncture point. For instance, placing the point at the proximal interphalangeal joints or the midpoint of the proximal finger joints would misidentify its location, while stating it is 3 cun lateral to Ren 3 does not correspond to the Ba Xie point's specific anatomical relevance nor its clinical applications.