Channel Pathways
The Lung Meridian consists of multiple channel systems, each with its own pathway and clinical significance.
Pathway Description
The internal pathway:
- The Lung Primary Channel of Hand Tai-Yin originates from the Middle-Burner in the region of the Stomach.
- It runs downward to connect with the Large Intestine, its paired Fu Organ.
- Winding back up, it goes along the upper orifice of the Stomach.
- It then passes through the diaphragm.
- It enters the Lungs, its pertaining Zang Organ.
- It then goes up to the throat region.
- Comes down transversally to Zhongfu LU-1 on the lateral thoracic wall at the level of the first intercostal space. This is where the Channel emerges to the surface.
The external pathway:
- From LU-1, the external pathway ascends one rib space to Yunmen LU-2 in the center of the hollow of the delto-pectoral triangle.
- After descending along the medial aspect of the upper arm, it reaches the cubital fossa of the elbow at Chize LU-5.
- It continues downward along the medial aspect of the forearm and arrives at the medial side of the styloid process of the radius above the wrist.
- From there, it follows the lateral border of the radial artery and reaches Taiyuan LU-9 at the wrist.
- It then passes the thenar eminence and goes along the radial side of the thumbnail.
- Finally, the Channel ends at the medial side of the thumbnail at Shaoshang LU-11.
Branches:
- A branch separates from the Primary Channel at Lieque LU-7, which is located at the styloid process of the radius. It runs directly to the radial side of the index finger to its tip where it connects with Shangyang LI-1, of the Large Intestine Channel. This is the hand Yin–Yang connection of the first great circuit.