Atlas of Acupuncture

4 Acupuncture Points of the Twelve Primary Channels

Location

In the 3rd intercostal space, on the midclavicular line, 4 cun lat-

eral to the anterior midline.

How to find

On the upper thorax, the midclavicular line (4 cun lateral to the

anterior midline) runs slightly obliquely from the clavicular

midpoint to the generally more lateral nipple. Locate the 3rd

intercostal space by palpating downward from the clavicle or by

palpating from the manubriosternal synchondrosis (second rib)

(➞3.5). Then palpate along its course to the midclavicular line,

where ST-16is located. Note the ascending course of the inter-

costal space! In male patients, this point can also be located by

counting one intercostal space upward from the level of the

nipple.

Located on the same level are ➞Ren-18(anterior midline),

➞KID-24(2 cun lateral to the anterior midline) and ➞SP-19

(6 cun lateral to the midline).

Needling

0.5–0.8 cun obliquely or transversely (subcutaneously), along

the course of the intercostal space or with or against the flow of

the channel. Caution: pneumothorax.

Actions/Indications

● Regulates the Qi

● Unbinds the chest

● Benefits the breasts

ST-16 Breast Window YINGCHUANG

LU-1

SP-20

SP-19

1st intercostal space

2nd intercostal space

3rd intercostal space

ST-14

ST-13

ST-15

ST-16

ST-17

1st intercostal space

2nd intercostal space

3rd intercostal space

4th intercostal space

KID-27

24 18

26

16

12

ST-9

19

SP-20

14

Ren-22

25

19

20

17

Ren- 16

Ren-18

Ren-19

Ren-17

3rd intercostal space

KID-24

KID-23

KID-22

Ren-17

3rd intercostal space

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