Large Intestine 13 (LI 13) Shou Wu Li — Arm Five Li

This point, on the upper arm, activates the channel and relieves pain and contraction, and dissipates phlegm nodules.

Large Intestine 13 (LI 13) Shou Wu Li 手五里 — Arm Five Li

Location

On the lateral aspect of the upper arm, 3 cun proximal to LI-11, on the line connecting LI-11 and LI-15, on the anterior border of the humerus.

Anatomy

On the lateral border of biceps brachii and brachialis; the radial collateral artery; the posterior antebrachial cutaneous nerve and the radial nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Activates the channel and stops pain
  • Dissipates phlegm nodules

Indications

Contraction and pain of the elbow and arm, and scrofula (neck lumps).

Needling

0.5-1.0 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With LI-11 for arm pain; with LI-17 for scrofula.

Classical Text References

Listed for scrofula and disorders of the arm.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid the radial nerve and artery.

Latest Research

Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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PubMed research

Acupuncture Shows Sustained Benefits for Chronic Daily Headache Prevention in Adults, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Acupuncture): Utility of Acupuncture Therapy for Adult Chronic Daily Headache Prophylaxis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. - Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2026.