San Jiao 15 (SJ 15) Tian Liao — Heavenly Bone-Hole

This point, on the upper shoulder, relieves pain and stiffness of the neck, shoulder and upper back.

San Jiao 15 (SJ 15) Tian Liao 天髎 — Heavenly Bone-Hole

Location

On the upper back, midway between GB-21 and SI-13, on the superior angle of the scapula.

Anatomy

In the trapezius and supraspinatus; the descending branch of the transverse cervical artery; the accessory nerve and the suprascapular nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Activates the channel and stops pain
  • Dispels wind and benefits the neck and shoulder

Indications

Pain and stiffness of the neck, shoulder and upper back.

Needling

0.5-0.8 cun, perpendicular insertion (angle to avoid the lung).

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With GB-21 and SI-14 for neck and shoulder stiffness.

Classical Text References

A meeting point with the Yang Wei Mai and the Gall Bladder channel.

Cautions & Contraindications

Deep insertion risks pneumothorax; needle with care.

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.

Check Also

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.