Spleen Channel

Dabao SP-21

Chinese: 大包

Pinyin: Dà Bāo

Location

On the mid-axillary line, in the 6th intercostal space. 

How to locate

The nipples are usually fall into the 4th intercostal space, which is the same level at Tianxi SP-18.

Identify the 6nd intercostal space by counting 2 space down, or 6 space down from the clavicle. 

Then follow the intercoastal space in a lateral direction and locate Dabao SP-21 on the axillary midline. 

SP-21 is often sensitive to press. 

Main actions

  1. Invigorates Blood in the Blood Connecting Channels of the all body
  2. Regulates Qi in the chest

Indications

Cough Ribs pain Body aches Weak Limbs Chest pain Weak joints Muscle pain Breathlessness Hypochondrial distention

Needling

0.5–0.8 cun obliquely or transversely, parallel to the intercostal space or with or against the channel pathway.

Caution: Pneumothorax.

Commentary for Dabao SP-21

Dabao SP-21 is the starting point of the Great Luo-Connecting Vessel of the Spleen, which then spreads over the chest and ribs. Therefore, it invigorates Qi in the chest. 

It also controls all the Blood Connecting Channel all over the body. Therefore, it is able to treat general body pain caused by Connecting Channel Blood Stagnation. Typical symptoms include body aches, weak limbs and joints and muscle pain.