Where is Liv-3 located in relation to the 11th rib?

Liv-3, or Liver 3, is known as "Tai Chong" and is located on the foot at the junction of the first and second metatarsal bones. It is specifically positioned between these two bones, approximately 2-3 inches from the web space of the big toe. Understanding this point's anatomical location and relation to surrounding structures is essential for practitioners engaging in acupuncture.

In terms of its relation to the 11th rib, positioning "anterior-inferior to the free end of the rib" accurately reflects the understanding that Liv-3 is situated more towards the front (anterior) and beneath (inferior) the rib structure. This description aligns with anatomical landmarks in Chinese medicine, where points are often described relative to other bony structures or anatomical features.

When analyzing the other potential answers, they do not accurately convey this relationship. Being "just inferior to the rib" suggests a direct vertical alignment beneath the rib without accounting for the anterior aspect, which is not precise for Liv-3’s location. "Above the rib" would be incorrect because Liv-3 is not situated superiorly; it is located inferior to the ribcage's level. Finally, describing it as "posterior to the rib"