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Houxi (SI-3), “Back Stream”, is the Shu-Stream and Wood point of the Small Intestine channel and the Confluent point of the Du Mai (Governing Vessel). It is a principal point for disorders of the neck, occiput and spine.
Location
On the ulnar border of the hand, proximal to the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint, at the end of the transverse palmar crease, at the border of the red and white skin (when a loose fist is made).
Anatomy
On the abductor digiti minimi; the dorsal digital artery and vein; the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Benefits the occiput, neck and spine (opens the Du Mai)
- Expels wind and resolves the exterior
- Clears heat and calms the spirit
- Benefits the eyes and ears
Indications
Stiffness and pain of the neck and occiput, acute lumbar sprain, headache, epilepsy and mania, night sweats, febrile disease, and contracture of the fingers and elbow.
Needling
0.5-1.0 cun, perpendicular insertion.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With BL-62 (its paired Confluent point) for the Du Mai, neck and back; with DU-14 for febrile disease and night sweats.
Classical Text References
The Shu-Stream (Wood) point of the Small Intestine and Confluent point of the Du Mai; widely used for the spine and neck.
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.