Large Intestine Meridian
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LI-17
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Neck — Lateral
Location
Tianding LI-17 is located on the lateral side of the neck, on the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, superior to Quepen ST-12 at the midpoint of the supraclavicular fossa. It is 1 cun below Futu LI-18 which is between the two head of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Main Actions
- Benefits the throat and voice
- Removes nodules
Indications
Commentary
Tianding LI-7 is less important than other Large Intestine Channel points. However, it is still quite effective in dissipating nodules. Therefore, it treats goitre and thyroid problems.
Its other function is to benefit the throat and voice, against sudden loss of voice and painful obstruction of throat.
Classical Sources
《针灸甲乙经》Zhēn Jiǔ Jiǎ Yǐ Jīng (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): First recorded this point and described its main indications for sudden loss of voice (暴喑 bào yīn), throat obstruction, difficulty swallowing, and scrofula.
《素问·气府论》Sù Wèn · Qì Fǔ Lùn (Plain Questions) with Wang Bing's commentary: Locates the point "on the neck above Quepen, directly behind Futu, half a cun from Qishe."
《铜人腧穴针灸图经》Tóng Rén Shū Xué Zhēn Jiǔ Tú Jīng (Bronze Man): "On the neck at Quepen, 1 cun behind Futu."
How to Locate
Rotate the neck to the opposite side, thus the sternocleidomastoid muscle becomes more visible and palpable. Tianding LI-17 is located directly posterior to the muscle, superior to Quepen ST-12 at the midpoint of the supraclavicular fossa.
Caution
This point lies in close proximity to major vascular and neural structures. The carotid artery and internal jugular vein are located anteriorly, and the brachial plexus runs deep to this point. Deep or misdirected needling may puncture the carotid artery, jugular vein, or damage the vertebral artery if inserted too deeply toward C6 transverse process. Always use shallow perpendicular or oblique insertion. Avoid aggressive manipulation. The head and neck region is considered one of the most dangerous zones for acupuncture.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needling Directions
After identifying the point location, rotate the head back to its normal position. Insert the needle 0.3–0.5 cun vertically or obliquely up to 0.8 cun.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness around the lateral neck. Sensation may radiate toward the throat or shoulder. Due to proximity to brachial plexus, patients may experience mild tingling or numbness in the arm if needled too deeply.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–15 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Questionable
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