Triple Burner Meridian
View all acupuncture points on this meridian and explore the channel pathway.
View meridian
SJ-16
Window of Heaven
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Neck — Lateral
Location
Posterior and inferior to the mastoid process, on the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with Tianrong SI-17 and Tianzhu BL-10.
Main Actions
- Regulates Qi ascending and descending to the head
Indications
Commentary
As a Window of Heaven point, Tianyou TB-16 regulates the Qi ascending and descending to the head.
First of all, it is able to subdue Rebellious Qi. In this case, excessive Liver Yang rises and causes typical symptoms such as headache, dizziness, swollen face or scrofula.
On the other hand, it stimulates the ascending of Qi to the head. When insufficient Qi goes to the head, sense orifices suffer and causes symptoms such as sudden deafness, blurred vision, excessive lacrimation, sneezing, nosebleed or loss of sense of smell.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot), Chapter 21: "Sudden deafness with excess of Qi, the ears and the eyes are not clear, select Tianyou SJ-16." This passage establishes SJ-16 as one of the original five "Window of Heaven" points for treating sudden sensory disorders.
Zhou Zhi-Cong Commentary: "The points and the orifices of the head and face are like the great windows of a high pavilion, by virtue of which Qi moves. When there is chaotic and rebellious Qi below, then the channels in the upper region do not move and there is lack of clarity of vision and hearing."
How to Locate
Rotate the head against resistance towards the side to be needled. Tianyou TB-16 is located on the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with the mandibular angle.
Caution
The carotid artery lies in close proximity to this point. Avoid deep or aggressive needling. Palpate carefully before insertion to locate the artery and needle posterior to it. Do not needle through the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Use gentle manipulation techniques only.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5–1 cun. Caution: Carotid artery.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension or soreness radiating toward the ear or occiput. Some patients may experience a sensation of warmth spreading through the lateral neck region. Deqi is typically moderate and may be accompanied by relief of neck tension.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
Special Point Classifications
Window of Heaven
Related Resources
Browse All Points
Explore the complete collection of acupuncture points across all meridians.
View all meridians