1.4 The 12 Sinew Channels (jing jin)Functions
The divergent channels reinforce the circulation of and commu-
nication between the primary channels in the Interior of the
body. On the one hand, this is achieved due to their connection
with the primary Yang channels (➞ pathways). But their
organisational structure also supplements the primary channels in
a functional way – for example they also control areas of the body
not covered by the primary channels. Thus points on the primary
Yin channels can affect the head and face, in spite of their ‘exter-
nal’ pathways ending in the thoracic region. This effect can be
explained by the fact that the Yin divergent channels, after
branching off from their pertaining primary Yin channel, pour
into the Yang divergent channels flowing to the head. A deeper
understanding of the trajectory and functions of the divergent
channels will in turn lead to a better understanding of the clini-
cal application of some commonly used acupuncture points.
Since their pathway passes the Heart and thorax, the divergent
channels further strengthen the connection to the Heart
(➞explanations above). According to some schools, they can
therefore also be used for the treatment of psychosomatic disorders.
Many interpretations and variants exist regarding the pathways
and clinical application of the divergent channels (for a good
overview see ➞Shima and Chase 2001).1.4 The 12 Sinew Channels
(jing jin)
Synonyms and translations: muscle channels, muscular meridi-
ans/the muscles in connection with the meridians (Larre and
Rochat de la Vallée), muscle regions, channel sinews.Principles of the sinew channel system
The sinew channels mainly represent the muscles, sinews and
ligaments located along the pathways of the primary channels
and their pertaining connecting vessels. They do not have their
own specific points and also no direct connection to the zangfu-
Organs. The 12 bilateral sinew channels are connected to and
named after their pertaining primary channel. Each sinew channel
has its own pathway, which generally follows the trajectory of its
pertaining primary channel. However, in contrast to the primary
channels, the sinew channels always begin at the extremities,
mostly separating from the primary channels at the jing-well
points (➞8.1.6) on the tips of the fingers and the toes. Their
pathways always run from the extremities to the trunk or further
to the head and face (➞centripetal circulation ➞1.1.1). They
cover a larger area than the primary channels, in the shape of a
band and binding (jie) like a spindle at the joints and other areas
of the body. This allows them to cover areas of the body which are
not reached by the primary channels or the divergent channels.
It further explains the actions of some of the points located on their
pertaining primary channel. Under pathological conditions, the
sinew channels will manifest as so-called ashi-points (a shi xue)
or as trigger points.Terms
Binding (jie) refers to spindle-shaped concentrations of the sinew
channels, which tend to be located on the bigger muscles and joints
(for more details on specific sinew channels see ➞Chapter 4).
The term ju(point of confluence, gathering) is used to signify an
area where two or more sinew channels are bundled together. In
the larger muscles, the Qi disperses or spreads (san), so that they
can be divided into smaller muscle groups. The sinew channels
connect (luo) the muscles, sinews and ligaments with the joints
in order to facilitate mobility.Rhythm of Qi flow
According to Ramakers (course material, 2003) the sinew chan-
nels are subject to their own daily rhythm of Qi flow:
BL ➡G.B. ➡ST ➡S.I. ➡T.B. ➡L.I. ➡SP ➡LU ➡LIV
➡P ➡KID ➡HE.Thorax
zong qiPertaining
zangfu-Organs
Yangprimary channelsYinprimary channelsYang YinDivergentYangchannels Div
er
ge
nt
Yin
cha
nne
lsFig. 1.25 Schematic illustration of the divergent channel
pathways (according to Shima and Chase 2001)Ch01-F10028.qxd 2/22/08 2:30 PM Page 21