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Master Tung’s Ling Gu & Da Bai — A Legendary Combination for Pain Relief, Neurological Disorders, and More

Updated: Aug 23

Master Tung's Acupuncture Point, 22.05 - Linggu (Miraculous Bone), 22.04 - Dabai (Big White)
Master Tung's Acupuncture Point, 22.05 - Linggu (Miraculous Bone), 22.04 - Dabai (Big White)

In the world of acupuncture, certain point combinations have earned legendary status for their consistent, almost miraculous results. Among them, none is more famous than Ling Gu (22.05) and Da Bai (22.04), two points from the Master Tung Acupuncture Family System. Known together simply as “Ling Gu–Da Bai,” this pairing is one of the most widely taught and clinically applied formulas in Tung-style acupuncture.


At Restorative Care Acupuncture & Health here in Miami, I frequently use Ling Gu and Da Bai to treat patients with back pain, sciatica, headaches, neurological disorders, and more. This article will explore their location, significance, and clinical applications.


Who Was Master Tung, and Why Are His Points So Special?


Master Tung Ching-Chang (1916–1975) was a renowned Chinese acupuncturist from Shandong Province who later taught in Taiwan. His family system of acupuncture was carefully guarded for generations before he began openly teaching it in the 1960s.

What sets Tung points apart is their distal nature and rapid clinical effect. A well-chosen Tung point can relieve pain or neurological symptoms within minutes, sometimes instantly. For patients and practitioners, this efficiency makes them invaluable.


Point Locations: Ling Gu (22.05) & Da Bai (22.04)


Ling Gu (22.05)

  • Location: On the dorsum of the hand, at the junction of the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, on the LI channel.

  • Name meaning: Miraculous Bone, referring to its effectiveness and skeletal landmark.


Da Bai (22.04)

  • Location: On the dorsum of the hand, in a depression 1 cun distal to the junction of the 1st and 2nd metacarpal dones, on the LI channel, distal to LI4.

  • Some authors say this point overlaps with LI3 (San Jian).

  • Name meaning: Big White, referring to its effectiveness in treating respiratory issues. In TCM, the color white corresponds to the lung.


Tips for locating:

  • Ling Gu sits higher (proximal), Da Bai just below it (distal).

  • These areas are often tender in patients with back pain or neurological issues.


Needle depth: 0.3 - 0.5 inches (superficial insertion is usually sufficient).


Indications and Conditions Treated


The Ling Gu–Da Bai combination is most famous for immediate pain relief, particularly for sciatica, but its effects go much further.


Neurological & Pain Disorders:

  • Sciatica (especially when radiating down the leg)

  • Low back pain

  • Neck and shoulder pain

  • Herniated discs

  • Radiculopathy

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Eye pain


Musculoskeletal Pain:

  • Knee pain

  • Hip pain

  • Foot pain

  • Shoulder pain

  • General joint pain


Other Clinical Uses:

  • High fever (children)

  • Asthma (children)

  • Common cold

  • Pneumonia

  • Emphysema

  • Fluid in the lungs

  • Trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain)

  • Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis)

  • Sinus issues

  • Menstrual disorders

  • Nerve weakness and numbness in the limbs

  • Intestinal pain

  • Polyuria

  • Tinnitus


Pro-Tip


The Ling Gu–Da Bai combination is one of the fastest-working prescriptions in Tung-style acupuncture. For patients with acute sciatica or lumbar pain, relief often begins within moments of needling.


From a holographic standpoint, the hand corresponds to the lower back and hips, making this a classic example of a distal treatment. Knowledge of Dr. Tan’s Balance Method can further enhance point selection and channel-based reasoning.


Important note: These points should not be used during pregnancy, as they are considered too strong and may induce uterine contractions.


Conclusion


Ling Gu and Da Bai are not just hand points—they are powerful tools in the Master Tung system for rapidly treating pain, sciatica, and neurological disorders. For practitioners, they are indispensable; for patients, they represent one of the most reliable ways to find fast, drug-free relief.


If you are struggling with pain or neurological issues, acupuncture with the Ling Gu–Da Bai combination may provide the breakthrough you’ve been searching for.


Robert Collazo, A.P.

Restorative Care Acupuncture & Health

📍 2100 SW 22nd St, Miami, FL 33145

📞 (786) 309-1456


Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended for licensed acupuncturists and healthcare professionals. All acupuncture points should only be located and needled by a qualified practitioner. Patients should not attempt to find or needle these points themselves, as incorrect technique may cause injury or reduce effectiveness. If you believe this point combination may help you, please consult a licensed acupuncturist.


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