LI-13 - Arm Five Miles

手五里 - Shǒu wǔ lǐ

Point Region: Upper arm

LI

Large Intestine Meridian

手阳明大肠经 - Shǒu Yángmíng Dàcháng Jīng

LI-13, or 'Shouwuli' (meaning 'Arm Five Miles'), is a local point on the upper arm. The name 'Five Miles' suggests its extensive reach in the upper arm, a similar concept to the 'three miles' of LI-10.

As a local point, Shouwuli is primarily used for issues of the upper arm and shoulder. It's an excellent point for a wide range of conditions, from muscle spasms and numbness to pain and stiffness. It also helps with problems in the neck and shoulder area, as the channel passes through these regions. By stimulating this point, you can help release tension and improve blood flow, restoring a sense of freedom and mobility to the upper body.

Shouwuli acts as a bridge between the elbow and shoulder, helping to ensure a smooth flow of energy and blood along the entire upper arm. It's a key point for anyone dealing with tension or chronic pain in this area, offering a powerful way to release muscular and energetic blockages.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: Located on the lateral upper arm, between elbow and shoulder.

How to Locate:

  1. Bend your elbow and find the outer end of your elbow crease
  2. Find the tip of your shoulder
  3. Locate the area about one-third of the way from elbow to shoulder
  4. The point is on the outer side of your upper arm
Location illustration for Located on the lateral upper arm, between elbow and shoulder.

Primary Functions

Musculoskeletal System

  • Treats shoulder and upper arm pain
  • Relieves muscle tension in shoulder region
  • Reduces inflammation in shoulder joint
  • Improves shoulder mobility and function

Nervous System

  • Alleviates nerve pain in upper arm
  • Treats neurological disorders
  • Reduces numbness in shoulder and arm

Immune & Energy System

  • Strengthens defensive qi
  • Boosts overall energy circulation
  • Enhances immune function

Respiratory System

  • Supports lung qi circulation
  • Improves respiratory function

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Arm pain
  • Shoulder stiffness
  • Paralysis
  • Shoulder pain
  • Arm weakness
  • Joint stiffness
  • Movement problems

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

N/A

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

LI-13 Protocols

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Important Precautions

  • Recent arm surgery
  • Severe shoulder injury
  • Acute arm fracture