Large Intestine Meridian
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LI-12
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Elbow, Upper Arm
Location
When the elbow is flexed, Zhouliao LI-12 is on the anterior border of the humerus, 1 cun proximal to Quchi LI-11 on the lateral end of the cubital crease.
Main Actions
- Removes Obstructions from the Channel
Indications
Commentary
Zhouliao LI-12 is less important comparing with other points in the Large Intestine Channel.
Its main function is to remove Obstructions from the Channel so as to treat numbness, pain and stiffness in the upper arm and elbow.
It is also very effective in treating elbow tendinitis or so called 'tennis elbow'.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayijing (針灸甲乙經): "Located in the depression on the outer aspect of the large bone of the elbow."
Leijing Tuyi (類經圖翼): "On the outer aspect of the large bone of the elbow in a depression, parallel with Tianjing (SJ-10), about 1 cun 4 fen apart."
Caiyan Bian (採艾編): "Zhouliao - on the outer aspect of the large bone of the elbow in a depression; there is a depression on the outer aspect of the large bone, hence it is called liao (bone-hole). All liao characters have the same meaning as jiao (cavity)."
How to Locate
With the elbow flexed at approximately 90°, palpate 1 cun above Quchi LI-11. Locate Zhouliao LI-12 at the junction of the shaft with the lateral epicondyle of the humerus and in front of the anterior border of the bone.
Caution
The radial collateral artery runs nearby. Exercise care to avoid blood vessels. The radial nerve is in proximity - firm palpation before needling is recommended to locate bone landmarks accurately. When treating tennis elbow, oblique insertion along the anterior border of the humerus (1.0–1.5 cun) may be used for enhanced local effect.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5–1 cun. Needle insertion between the border of the humerus and the flexor muscles in a medial direction.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distention and soreness around the elbow. The sensation may radiate along the arm toward the forearm or shoulder.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
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