Atlas of Acupuncture

4.4 The Spleen Channel System – Foot taiyin(zu tai yin jing luo)

Location

On the midaxillary line, in the 6th intercostal space. Note:

According to some texts, this point is located in the 7th inter-

costal space.

How to find

Locate the 6th intercostal space by counting parasternally from

the clavicle or from the manubriosternal synchondrosis (➞3.5).

Follow the course of the intercostal space in a lateral direction

and locate SP-21on the axillary midline (note: the intercostal

space laterally curves upward). SP-21is often sensitive to pres-

sure. Or: Locate SP-21on the midaxillary line, midway between

the axilla and the end of the 11th rib.

Needling

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

to the intercostal space or with or against the channel pathway.

Caution: Pneumothorax.

Actions/Indications

● Regulates Qi and Blood, governs and wraps all the luo-

connecting vessels of the body

● Unbinds the chest

Special features

Great luo-connecting point of the spleen (➞8.1.2), exit point.

Great Wrapping DABAO SP-21

Mid-axillary line

SP-21

4th intercostal space

5th intercostal space

6th intercostal space

SP-20

SP-21

Mid-axillary

line

Mid-axillary line

SP-21

4th intercostal space

5th intercostal space

6th intercostal space

11th rib

LIV-13

G.B.-22

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