top of page
Search

Master Tung's Si Ma (Four Horses) - A Powerful Grouping For Pain, Respiratory, Skin, and Immune Disorders

Master Tung's Acupuncture Points: Simazhong (88.17), Simashang (88.18), and Simaxia (88.19)
Master Tung's Acupuncture Points: Simazhong (88.17), Simashang (88.18), and Simaxia (88.19)

In the Master Tung acupuncture system, certain point groupings stand out for their wide-ranging systemic effects. One of the most famous is Si Ma (Four Horses), a set of 3 points highly valued for treating pain, respiratory, dermatological, and immune-related conditions.


At my Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic in Miami, I often use Si Ma for patients experiencing pain, allergies, skin conditions, and systemic inflammation. This article explores its location, meaning, and clinical value for both practitioners and patients.


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


Master Tung Ching-Chang (1916–1975) was one of the most influential acupuncturists of the modern era. His family lineage of acupuncture points remained a closely guarded secret until he began teaching publicly in Taiwan during the 1960s. Tung-style points are known for being distal and holographic, meaning they can affect distant areas of the body and often deliver rapid results. Si Ma is a prime example of this powerful approach.


Point Location: Si Ma (Four Horses)


Name meaning: Why is it named "Four Horses" when it includes only 3 points? Although they consist of only three points, their powerful therapeutic effects are compared to the force of four galloping horses.


Locations:

88.17 Si Ma Zhong (Center Four Horses)

3 cun anterior to the point touched by the middle finger when the patient is standing with hands at their side (88.25 - Zhong Jiu Li or Feng Shi - GB31), on the ST channel.


88.18 Si Ma Shang (Upper Four Horses)

2 cun superior to Si Ma Zhong (88.17), on the ST Channel.


88.19 Si Ma Xia (Lower Four Horses)

2 cun inferior to Si Ma Zhong (88.17), on the ST Channel


Tips for locating:

  • Ask the patient to stand or lie supine with the thigh relaxed.

  • Palpate along the line from ST32 upward; reactive or tender points often correspond to the Sima locations.

  • Some practitioners needle all three points; others choose the most reactive ones based on palpation.


Needle depth: 0.8 - 2 inches (oblique or perpendicular).


Indications and Conditions Treated


Si Ma is a multi-system powerhouse, especially effective for pain, neurological, respiratory, immune, and dermatological issues, as well as systemic inflammation.


Neurological & Musculoskeletal Pain Disorders:

  • Sciatica

  • Bone spurs

  • Rib pain

  • Upper back pain

  • Chest pain

  • Breast pain

  • Wrist pain

  • Ankle pain

  • Facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy)

  • Hemiplegia

  • Tinnitus


Respiratory & Immune Disorders:

  • Asthma

  • Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

  • Bronchitis

  • Chronic cough

  • Common cold

  • Shortness of breath

  • Pulmonary tuberculosis

  • Immune deficiency syndromes

  • Pneumonia

  • Conjunctivitis

  • Pleurisy

  • Rhinitis

  • Sinusitis

  • Stuffy nose

  • Otitis


Skin & Systemic Conditions:

  • Eczema

  • Psoriasis

  • Urticaria (hives)

  • Chronic skin itching

  • Autoimmune-related skin disorders


Other Uses:

  • Generalized inflammation

  • Certain digestive conditions that are linked to systemic heat


Pro-Tip


From a holographic or imaging perspective, the thigh corresponds to the chest, especially the lungs, making Si Ma a prime distal selection for respiratory and skin conditions.


Conclusion


Master Tung’s Si Ma (Four Horses) is more than a set of leg points; it’s a potent grouping for conditions involving the lungs, skin, immune system, and even pain. Whether treating asthma, allergies, or chronic skin problems, Si Ma offers a unique and effective approach grounded in the Tung lineage.


If you suffer from any of the above conditions and are interested in an advanced acupuncture approach, I welcome you to visit my Miami Acupuncture Clinic.


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 these points may help you, please consult a licensed acupuncturist.


References

Comments

bottom of page