Large Intestine 16 (LI 16) Ju Gu — Great Bone

This point, on the shoulder girdle, activates the channel, benefits the shoulder and dissipates phlegm nodules.

Large Intestine 16 (LI 16) Ju Gu 巨骨 — Great Bone

Location

On the shoulder, in the depression between the acromial end of the clavicle and the spine of the scapula.

Anatomy

Between the trapezius and supraspinatus; the suprascapular artery; the lateral supraclavicular nerve, accessory nerve and suprascapular nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Activates the channel and benefits the shoulder
  • Dissipates phlegm nodules and stops bleeding

Indications

Pain and motor impairment of the shoulder and upper back, scrofula, and haematemesis.

Needling

0.5-1.0 cun, perpendicular insertion, angled to avoid the lung.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With LI-15 for shoulder pain.

Classical Text References

A meeting point with the Yang Qiao Mai.

Cautions & Contraindications

Deep insertion risks puncturing the lung; angle the needle carefully.

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.