Spleen Channel

Tianxi SP-18

Chinese: 天溪

Pinyin: Tiān Xī

Location

2 cun lateral to the nipple, in the 4th intercostal space. 

How to locate

The nipples usually falls into the 4th intercostal space, which is the same level at Tianxi SP-18. Measure 2 cun lateral from the nipple by following the course of the intercostal space and locate SP-18. 

Main actions

  1. Regulates Qi and descends Rebellious Qi
  2. Benefits the breasts and promotes lactation

Indications

Cough Hiccuping Chest pain Breast lumps Chest fullness Breathlessness Low milk supply Clogged milk ducts Difficult breastfeeding Lateral costal region pain Rattling sound in the throat Lateral costal region fullness

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 Tianxi SP-18

Tianxi SP-18 is not a major point of the Spleen Channel. 

Its main function is to regulate Qi in the chest and lateral costal region, so as to release pain and distension there. It also descends the Rebellious Qi to stop shortness of breath, coughing, hiccup and rattling sound in the throat. 

Another important function of Tianxi SP-18 is that it promotes lactation by removing breast lumps and clear the clogged milk ducts.