Both desk workers and those on their feet all day often feel discomfort throughout their bodies, frequently experiencing swollen legs, sore backs, and aching waists. When this happens, massage can be an effective way to relieve physical discomfort.
From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, fatigue-induced discomfort in the waist and legs often stems from prolonged sitting or standing, excessive travel, exposure to cold pathogens, poor qi and blood circulation, or inadequate nourishment of tendons and meridians. The Chengshan acupoint on the calf is an effective "fatigue-relieving point."
Belonging to the Bladder Meridian of Foot-Taiyang, this point is located at the midpoint of the posterior calf, beneath the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle. When you forcefully straighten your calf or lift your heel, a "human-shaped" depression appears on the calf. The point where the two angles of this depression meet is Chengshan. As its name suggests, Chengshan literally "bears the mountain" of the body.When standing, calf muscles naturally tense. Chengshan's location sits at the junction of tendons, bones, and muscles—the most direct point of force application. Thus, when the body becomes "overburdened," Chengshan steps up to bear the pressure and alleviate fatigue.Regularly pressing this point can relax tendons, activate meridians, strengthen muscles, and replenish deficiencies. It is effective for relieving lower back pain, leg pain, cramps, and calf spasms. While easing muscle tension, it also eliminates feelings of fatigue.
Additionally, frequent massage of this point can smooth the flow of qi along the same meridian, dispel cold and dampness, and is also beneficial for anal disorders such as hemorrhoids and constipation.
Self-massage can be performed while seated in a chair, or by having someone else apply pressure while lying down. Do this 1-2 times daily for about 10 minutes each session. Note: Since the deep tibial nerve runs through this area, excessive pressure or sensitivity may cause burning pain, numbness, or movement difficulties along the nerve's distribution.Mild symptoms typically subside after ceasing massage, while severe cases may persist for several days. Additionally, this point is unsuitable for pregnant women, individuals with significant blood loss, or those with chronic illness and weakened constitution, as they require nourishment to replenish qi and blood. If repeated massage proves ineffective, seek prompt medical attention.