Small Intestine Meridian
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SI-10
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Shoulder
Location
When the arm is adducted, Naoshu SI-10 is directly above JianZhen SI-9, in the depression inferior and lateral to the scapular spine.
Main Actions
- Opens the Channel
Indications
Commentary
Naoshu SI-10 is the Small Intestine Channel meeting point to both Yang Stepping and Linking Vessel. Thus it can be stimulated to ease shoulder stiffness and increase mobility by removing the Channel Obstruction. It is an important point for Pain Obstruction Syndrome in the shoulder.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (針灸甲乙經): Records SI-10 as a meeting point of Hand Taiyang, Foot Taiyang, Yang Wei Mai, and Yang Qiao Mai vessels.
Zhenjiu Xue (針灸學): "Main indications: shoulder and arm pain, scrofula (luoli). Combine with Jianyu and Quchi to treat shoulder and arm pain."
Name Etymology: 'Nao' (臑) refers to the muscle prominence of the upper arm; 'Shu' (俞) means transport point. The name indicates where the Qi of the meridian is infused into the upper arm region.
How to Locate
With the patient sitting upright, palpate from the posterior axillary fold upward, past Jianzhen SI-9, which is at the lower border of the deltoid muscle, to the bony resistance of the scapular spine and acromion, which here form a curve that opens towards the inferior, Naoshu SI-10 is located below its bony border.
Caution
Do not needle deeply toward the chest side due to risk of damaging large blood vessels (posterior circumflex humeral artery and vein). Avoid heavy lifting and thrusting manipulation as this may cause hematoma. The axillary nerve and suprascapular nerve are located in the deep layer. Needle slightly toward the shoulder rather than medially.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
0.5–1.5 cun vertically.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness around the posterior shoulder, often radiating toward the scapula or down the arm. A dull aching sensation may be felt in the infraspinous region.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
Questionable
Gua Sha
Recommended
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