CV-16 - Chest Center

膻中 - Zhōng tíng

Point Region: Chest

CV

Conception Vessel

任脉 - Rèn mài

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the front of the chest, on the midline, at the midpoint of the junction between the breastbone and the xiphoid process (the xiphisternal junction).

How to Locate:

  1. Find the bottom of your breastbone, where the lower ribs meet in the middle
  2. The point is on the midline at that junction
CV-16 (Chest Center) acupressure point location: On the front of the chest, on the midline, at the midpoint of the junction between the breastbone and the xiphoid process (the xiphisternal junction).

How to Apply Pressure

At the centre where the breastbone joins its lower tip, touch lightly. Use light, comfortable pressure; do not press deeply or painfully. Do not press after recent chest surgery or with a severe heart condition.

Traditional Indications

In TCM, this point is traditionally used for:

  • Acid reflux
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Esophageal disorders
  • Hiccups
  • Vomiting
  • Throat discomfort

Related Health Concerns

HeartburnHiccupNausea and Vomiting

Select a point to see its location, how to find it, and its traditional uses.

Important Precautions

Avoid this point with:

  • Recent chest surgery
  • Severe heart conditions