Acupuncture
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EX-UE-1
Safety Warnings
- Needling contraindicated
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Elbow
Location
On the tip of the olecranon.
Main Actions
- Transforms Phlegm and reduces swelling
Indications
Commentary
Zhoujian EX-UE-1 is mainly used to transforms Phlegm, especially effective in removing intestinal abscess. It is also indicated for scrofula and nodules in the axilla and inguinal region.
It is recommended to apply moxibustion to the point which symptoms are on the opposite side.
Classical Sources
Qian Jin Yao Fang (备急千金要方): Records the use of Zhoujian for treating intestinal abscess (肠痈), establishing its primary clinical application.
Zhen Jiu Da Cheng (针灸大成): Describes the contralateral moxibustion technique for scrofula - "If scrofula affects the left, moxa the right elbow tip; if it affects the right, moxa the left."
Chinese Medical Manuscript (1914): "Moxibustion is performed on this point to treat scrofula (luoli). In male patients, the moxibustion should proceed from left to right; in female patients from right to left."
How to Locate
On the tip of the olecranon. The point is best located when the elbow is flexed.
Caution
This is a moxibustion-only point located on the bony prominence of the olecranon (elbow tip). Needling is not traditionally performed due to the lack of muscle tissue and proximity to the olecranon bursa. If any needling is attempted, it should be extremely superficial. Direct moxa is the primary treatment method. For scrofula treatment, use the contralateral technique: treat the opposite elbow from the affected side of the body.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needling Directions
Moxibustion only!
Expected Deqi Sensation
This point is traditionally treated with moxibustion only due to its location on the bony prominence of the olecranon. If needled superficially, a localized distending or aching sensation may be felt at the elbow tip.
Moxibustion
Particularly Recommended
Duration: 7-15 cones of direct moxa; or 10-15 minutes with moxa stick
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Questionable
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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