GV-13 - Kiln Path

陶道 - Tāo dào

Point Region: Upper back

GV

Governing Vessel

督脉 - Dū mài

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the upper back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra (T1).

How to Locate:

  1. Find C7, the most prominent bump at the base of the neck (it moves when you turn your head)
  2. Move down to the next bump, T1
  3. The point is in the hollow just below it
GV-13 (Kiln Path) acupressure point location: On the upper back, on the midline, in the hollow below the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra (T1).

How to Apply Pressure

Once you have found GV-13, use a soft fingertip touch and avoid force around the base of the neck. Stop if dizziness or headache increases; severe fever or mental symptoms call for medical attention, not acupressure.

Traditional Indications

In TCM, this point is traditionally used for:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Agitation
  • Neck stiffness
  • Headache
  • Mental disorders

Related Health Concerns

Cold and Flu OnsetAnxietyNeck and Shoulder PainHeadache

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

Important Precautions

Avoid this point with:

  • Severe cervical spine disorders
  • Acute psychiatric conditions
  • High fever with delirium

Take care:

  • Avoid excessive pressure on the neck area
  • Discontinue if dizziness or headache increases
  • Seek medical attention for severe mental symptoms