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This point, at the jaw joint, is a principal local point for TMJ disorders, toothache, facial pain and ear disorders.
Location
On the face, in the depression between the zygomatic arch and the mandibular notch, found with the mouth closed.
Anatomy
Posterior to the masseter; the transverse facial artery and the maxillary artery; the zygomatic and facial nerves and the auriculotemporal nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Benefits the jaw joint and the teeth
- Benefits the ears
- Dispels wind and stops pain (facial)
Indications
Temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction, toothache, facial paralysis and trigeminal neuralgia, tinnitus and deafness.
Needling
0.5-1.0 cun, perpendicular insertion (mouth closed).
Moxibustion Suitability
Moxibustion may be used.
Point Combinations
With ST-6 and LI-4 for TMJ and toothache; with SJ-17 for ear disorders.
Classical Text References
A meeting point with the Gall Bladder channel; the chief local point for the jaw joint.
Cautions & Contraindications
None specific.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.
