Large Intestine 12 (LI 12) Zhou Liao — Elbow Bone-Hole

This is a local point that activates the channel and relieves pain and contraction of the elbow.

Large Intestine 12 (LI 12) Zhou Liao 肘髎 — Elbow Bone-Hole

Location

On the lateral aspect of the elbow, on the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus, superior and lateral to LI-11.

Anatomy

On the lateral supracondylar ridge; the radial collateral artery; the posterior antebrachial cutaneous nerve and the radial nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Activates the channel and stops pain
  • Benefits the elbow and sinews

Indications

Pain, contraction and numbness of the elbow and arm, and tennis elbow.

Needling

0.5-1.0 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With LI-11 for elbow pain.

Classical Text References

A local point for disorders of the elbow.

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.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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PubMed research

Network Meta-Analysis Finds Chinese Herbal Decoctions Improve Outcomes and Reduce Side Effects in Breast Cancer Treatment

Research summary (Traditional Chinese Medicine): Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine decoctions in breast cancer treatment: a network meta-analysis. - Frontiers in oncology, 2026.