What is the location designation for SP-4?

SP-4, known as Gongsun or "Grandfather Sun," is designated as a Luo Connecting point of the Spleen meridian. Luo Connecting points are significant in Traditional Chinese Medicine because they serve as connecting points between a primary channel and its associated branch or collateral, allowing for communication and balance between different meridians.

When needling SP-4, practitioners often aim to address issues related to the Spleen and its role in digestion and Qi transformation, as well as any emotional imbalances tied to the Spleen's function. The diagnosis and treatment effects associated with Luo Connecting points often involve harmonizing the primary channel with the collateral branches, which can be especially beneficial in cases where the Spleen is involved in a broader system of disharmony.

Understanding the designation of SP-4 as a Luo Connecting point thus enhances the acupuncturist's ability to formulate effective treatment strategies by recognizing its unique role in the network of meridians. This distinction is crucial when considering the applications in treatment and the connection of symptoms.