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ACUPUNCTURE

Jian Wai Shu: TCM Acupoint Guide

JIANWAISHU
By the TCMHH editorial team Not medically reviewed How we work Updated 6 Oct 2026
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Name

Jian Wai Shu (Jianwaishu)

Location

3 cun lateral to DU-13 Taodao, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra. Note: when the shoulder is relaxed, the 3 cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.

Needling

  • Puncture perpendicularly, 0.3 to 0.5 cun.
  • Oblique-medial insertion, 0.5 to 1 cun.
  • Caution: perpendicular insertion, especially in thin patients, carries a substantial risk of inducing a pneumothorax.
  • Moxibustion is applicable.

Actions

  • Activates the channel
  • Alleviates pain
  • Expels wind and cold
  • Benefits the shoulder and scapula

Indications

  • Aching of the shoulder and back
  • Pain of the shoulder and scapula with cold sensations extending to the elbow
  • Generalized bi syndrome
  • Soreness and pain of the back of the shoulder
  • Stiffness and spasms of the nape
  • Spasm of the neck muscles
  • Hemiplegia
  • Pleurisy
  • Pain and rigidity of the neck
  • Chills and fever accompanied by neck rigidity and inability to turn the head
  • Neuralgia of the shoulder and scapula
  • Rheumatic neuralgia of the shoulder and scapular region
  • Rigidity of the neck
  • Occipital neuralgia
  • Upper limb cold and painful
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Sources and further reading

We cite classical materia medica and modern reference works. This article is health education, not medical advice.

  • Shennong Bencao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), Han dynasty.
  • Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica), Li Shizhen, 1578.
  • Chinese Pharmacopoeia, current edition — identity, quality and safety monographs.
  • NCCIH and WHO reference material on traditional medicine safety.

Spotted an error or a better source? Tell us — corrections are logged on our editorial policy page.

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