Atlas of Acupuncture

3.5 Anterior and Lateral Aspect of the Thorax and Abdomen

Midclavicular line (
Fig. 3.88)

The midclavicular line provides a further tool for reference on

the upper thorax. It is an imaginary line that runs from the mid-

point of the clavicle to the nipple. Since in most cases the nipple

lies somewhat more laterally than the clavicular midpoint, the

line tends to have a slightly oblique pathway. 
ST-13to ST-16

are all located on the line.

Nipple (
Fig. 3.88)

In men, the nipple is located in the 4th intercostal space, lateral

to the midline, while in women, the location can vary depending

on the shape of the breast. 
ST-17is located on the nipple.

Mamillary line (
Fig. 3.88)

The mamillary line is an imaginary line for orientation on the

mediolateral thorax and abdomen. It runs vertically from the

nipple in an inferior direction. The points 
ST-18, LIV-14and

G.B.-24are all located on this line.

Sternocostal angle, xiphoid process and

umbilicus (
Figs 89, 3.91)

The lower borders of the ribcage unite at the lower sternal bor-

der, forming the sternocostal angle. This angle and the umbilicus

are the two major anatomical landmarks for point location on the

upper abdomen.

Caution:It is important not to mistake the sternocostal angle for

the tip of the xiphoid process. The latter is attached to the ster-

num at the sternocostal angle, projecting inferiorly towards the

abdomen. For definite identification, palpate along the costal

cartilage in a superior direction to where it meets the ster-

nocostal angle. This is the location of 
Ren-16.

Fig. 3.88

ST-18

ca. 4 cun

ST-13

ST-17

LIV-14

G.B.-24

Mamillary line

Midclavicular

line

Clavicle

Sterno-

costal

angle

Ren-16

Ren-16

Sternocostal

angle

Ren-8

Ren-12

Xiphoid

process

Fig. 3.90

Fig. 3.89