Acupuncture Times Your guide to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and TCM — explore acupoints, herbs and formulas, plus the latest acupuncture research news.
Related Articles
This point, level with the Heart Shu, benefits the Heart, unbinds the chest and calms the spirit (shen).
Location
On the back, 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5), level with BL-15.
Anatomy
On the trapezius and rhomboid; the posterior intercostal artery; the dorsal rami of the thoracic nerves.
Actions & Functions
- Benefits the Heart and unbinds the chest
- Calms the spirit (shen)
Indications
Cardiac pain and palpitations, oppression of the chest, anxiety, and stiffness of the back.
Needling
0.5-0.7 cun, oblique insertion towards the spine.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With BL-15 and HT-7 for anxiety and palpitations.
Classical Text References
The outer Back-Shu of the Heart, associated with the shen (spirit).
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep 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.
