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This point, at the nape, is a principal point for stiff neck, headache and disorders of the head, eyes and brain, and a Window of Heaven point.
Location
At the nape, in the depression on the lateral side of the trapezius muscle, 1.3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of C2 (DU-15 region).
Anatomy
On the trapezius; the occipital artery; the greater occipital nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Relieves stiffness and pain of the neck
- Benefits the head, eyes and brain
- Dispels wind and calms the spirit
Indications
Stiff neck and occipital headache, dizziness, red and painful eyes, nasal congestion, sore throat, and shoulder and back pain.
Needling
0.5-0.8 cun, perpendicular insertion; do not angle medially and upward towards the medulla.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With GB-20 and SI-3 for stiff neck.
Classical Text References
A Window of Heaven point of the Bladder channel.
Cautions & Contraindications
Do not direct the needle deeply towards the spinal cord/medulla.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.
