Small Intestine 15 (SI 15) Jian Zhong Shu — Middle Shoulder Shu

This point, on the upper back, benefits the neck and descends rebellious Lung qi.

Small Intestine 15 (SI 15) Jian Zhong Shu 肩中俞 — Middle Shoulder Shu

Location

On the upper back, 2 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of C7.

Anatomy

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

Actions & Functions

  • Benefits the neck and upper back
  • Descends rebellious Lung qi
  • Benefits the eyes

Indications

Pain and stiffness of the neck and shoulder, cough and asthma, and blurred vision.

Needling

0.5-0.8 cun, oblique insertion directed laterally.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With SI-14 and GB-20 for neck stiffness.

Classical Text References

A local point of the upper back, also used for cough.

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.