Kyusho: The Art of Pressure Points
Kyūsho (急所), the study of pressure points, lies at the crossroads of anatomy, strategy, and ethics. It is not simply about physical vulnerability — it is a practice of precision, awareness, and responsibility. In AKBAN, we approach kyūsho not as mysticism, but as a science-based knowledge, informed by anatomical research and taught through structured, disciplined progression.
While the knowledge here can support the neutralization of threats and enhance self-defense capabilities, its purpose extends deeper: to guide practitioners toward a lower level of violence, and to cultivate a martial mindset rooted in practicality, restraint, and mastery.
This page offers two layers of engagement:
- Foundational Overview: Clear, anatomical descriptions of key pressure points (below).
- Advanced Practice: Additional resources on clinical applications are reserved for AKBAN level 4 and 5 practitioners. While basic point locations are widely available in many sources, detailed application techniques and clinical insights require appropriate training and are accessible through the AKBAN practitioner portal.
Kyūsho is part of a larger ethical framework. To understand how we teach and apply this knowledge, see our Ethical Code and Emotional Regulation Program.
Kyusho Points Index
Hoshizawa – Cubital Fossa
The hollow at the anterior elbow containing the radial nerve, brachial artery, median nerve, and biceps tendon.
- Radial nerve: Divides into superficial and deep branches.
- Biceps tendon: Attaches to radial tuberosity.
- Brachial artery: Bifurcates into radial and ulnar arteries.
- Median nerve: Passes between heads of pronator teres.
- Clinical relevance: Risk of injury in venepuncture and supracondylar fractures.
Jakkotsu – Bicipital Groove
Anterior humerus groove carrying the brachial artery, radial, median, and ulnar nerves.
- Brachial artery: Main vessel of upper arm.
- Radial nerve: Lateral to the artery.
- Ulnar & Median nerves: Medial side of the artery.
- Clinical relevance: Palpation site for brachial pulse; nerve compression zone.
Restricted Advanced Points (Level 4+)
Tento – Bregma
A rhomboid space anterior to the sagittal suture between parietal and frontal bones.
Uses and potential harms.Rangiku – Frontal Notch
Located on the superciliary arch near the frontal foramen.
Uses and potential harms.Tenmon – Nasion / Nose Tip
Two points: the nasion (frontal/nasal suture) and the tip of the nose.
Uses and potential harms.Kirigasumi – Mastoid / Ear
Two points: mastoid process and external ear (auris externa).
Uses and potential harms.Daimon – Quadrangular Space
Posterior shoulder region between humerus and scapula.
Uses and potential harms.Matsukaze – Suprasternal Notch
Dip at the top of the sternum between clavicles.
Uses and potential harms.Jujiro – Nipple / Deltopectoral Groove
Two separate points on the thorax and shoulder.
Uses and potential harms.Kyusho Pressure Point Chart
Video: Jakkin (Jakotsu) and Hoshi
Video: Kyusho Kobura (Common Peroneal Nerve)
Video: Ryufu (Trachea) in Ninjutsu Kata
In Hebrew נקודת תורפה, קיושו