Small Intestine 14 (SI 14) Jian Wai Shu — Outer Shoulder Shu

This point, on the upper back, activates the channel and relieves pain and stiffness of the neck and upper back.

Small Intestine 14 (SI 14) Jian Wai Shu 肩外俞 — Outer Shoulder Shu

Location

On the upper back, 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of T1.

Anatomy

In the trapezius and levator scapulae, over the rhomboid; the transverse cervical artery; the dorsal scapular and accessory nerves.

Actions & Functions

  • Activates the channel and dispels wind and cold
  • Benefits the neck and upper back

Indications

Pain and stiffness of the neck, shoulder and upper back, and aching that extends to the arm.

Needling

0.5-0.8 cun, oblique insertion directed laterally.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With SI-15 and GB-21 for neck and shoulder stiffness.

Classical Text References

A local point of the upper back.

Cautions & Contraindications

Deep perpendicular insertion risks pneumothorax; needle obliquely.

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.