LI-16 - Great Bone

巨骨 - Jù gǔ

Point Region: Shoulder

LI

Large Intestine Meridian

手阳明大肠经 - Shǒu Yángmíng Dàcháng Jīng

LI-16, or 'Jugu' (meaning 'Great Bone'), is a local point located on the shoulder, in the depression between the collarbone and the acromion. Its name refers to its position near the 'great bones' of the shoulder.

As a local point, Jugu is primarily used for pain, stiffness, and limited movement in the shoulder and scapular region. It is often used in combination with other shoulder points to provide comprehensive relief for conditions such as 'frozen shoulder' and 'rotator cuff pain'. By stimulating this point, you can help to release deep-seated tension and improve blood flow to the shoulder joint.

Jugu provides a direct access point to the core of the shoulder joint, allowing for targeted treatment of both local and referred pain. It's a foundational point for anyone seeking to address shoulder pain and restore a full range of motion.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: Located at the shoulder girdle, near the acromioclavicular joint.

How to Locate:

  1. Find where your collarbone meets your shoulder blade
  2. This is the top of your shoulder where these bones connect
  3. Feel for the depression near this joint
  4. The point is in the hollow at this bony junction
Location illustration for Located at the shoulder girdle, near the acromioclavicular joint.

Primary Functions

Musculoskeletal System

  • Treats shoulder and clavicle pain
  • Relieves neck and shoulder tension
  • Reduces acromioclavicular joint disorders
  • Improves shoulder girdle function

Nervous System

  • Alleviates cervical nerve pain
  • Treats headaches originating from neck
  • Reduces neurological symptoms in shoulder

Respiratory System

  • Strengthens lung qi
  • Improves breathing mechanics
  • Treats respiratory congestion

Circulatory System

  • Improves circulation in upper body
  • Reduces vascular congestion

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Shoulder pain
  • Scapular stiffness
  • Motor restriction
  • Shoulder stiffness
  • Movement problems
  • Joint pain
  • Shoulder blade pain

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

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

LI-16 Protocols

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Important Precautions

  • Recent shoulder surgery
  • Severe shoulder fracture
  • Acromioclavicular joint injury