Large Intestine Meridian
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LI-3
Wood-Mu
Stream-Shu Point
Needle Depth
0.5–0.8 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Hand — Dorsum, Fingers
Location
Located on the radial side of the index finger, in the depression proximal to the head of the 2nd metacarpal bone.
Main Actions
- Removes Channel Stagnation
- Expels Exterior Wind
Indications
Fever
Sneezing
Eye pain
Diarrhoea
Borborygmi
Throat pain
Aversion to cold
Fingers swelling
Fingers stiffness
Commentary
Sanjian LI-3 is widely used to treat Painful Obstruction Syndrome of the hand by expelling Wind-Cold from the Channel. Like many Stream-Shu points, it is indicated in joint aches. For example, it can ease redness and swelling of the hand dorsum or difficulties in flexing and extending the fingers.
It is also used to expel Exterior Wind-Heat, which can cause acute pain in eye, throat, tooth and etc.
Finally it regulates the Intestine by removing Cold or Dampness. Typical symptoms are diarrhoea and borborygmi.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot): First mentions this point as the Shu-Stream point where Qi "pours" (所注为输) on the Hand Yangming channel.
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture): "Located on the hand, behind the base joint of the index finger, on the inner [radial] side, in the depression."
Classic of Difficulties (Nan Jing): States that Shu-Stream points are indicated for "heaviness of the body and pain of the joints" - particularly relevant to Sanjian's use for Bi syndrome and joint disorders.
How to Locate
This point will be easier to find if a loose fist is made. Palpate along the radial aspect of the 2nd metacarpal bone in a distal direction until the angle formed between the head and the shaft can be clearly felt. Sanjian LI-3 is located at the junction of the shaft and the head. It is slightly below its most external curvature. Houxi SI-3 is located in a comparable position on the ulnar aspect of the 5th metacarpal bone.
Caution
When needling deeply toward Houxi SI-3 (透刺), ensure the hand is held in a loose fist position with metacarpal bones aligned in the same plane. The radial nerve branch and hand dorsal venous network are present in this area - observe for any visible vessels before needling.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.5–0.8 cun
Needling Directions
With the hand relaxed, 0.3–1 cun vertically directly below the lower border of the metacarpal bone towards Houxi SI-3.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness at the point. Deqi may radiate toward the dorsum of the hand or proximally along the channel toward the wrist. Some patients report sensation spreading to the index finger.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
Five Element & Transporting Classification
Five Phase
Wood-Mu
Transporting Type
Stream-Shu Point
Mother-Child Role
Mother (Tonifying)
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