SI-14 - Outer Shoulder Shu

肩外俞 - Jiān wài shū

Point Region: Upper back

SI

Small Intestine Meridian

手太阳小肠经 - Shǒu Tàiyáng Xiǎochángjīng

SI-14 Jianwaishu, meaning 'Outer Shoulder Point,' is a local point for upper back and scapular disorders. Located on the back, it is a key point for addressing a wide range of issues that are caused by stagnation or excess heat in the upper back. Its name, 'Outer Shoulder Point,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.

Think of Jianwaishu as a point that helps to 'straighten the shoulder' of your body. It's invaluable for addressing issues like shoulder pain, a feeling of 'stuckness' in the arm, and a restless spirit. By regulating the body's internal energy, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.

By regulating the body's internal energy, SI-14 helps to restore a sense of balance and inner peace. It's a point that reminds us that our true power comes from a calm and unburdened body.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: Located on the upper back, lateral to the spine, at the level of the first thoracic vertebra.

How to Locate:

  1. Find the base of your neck where it meets your shoulders
  2. Move outward from your spine toward your shoulder
  3. This is at the level where your neck meets your upper back
  4. The point is lateral to your spine at this level
Location illustration for Located on the upper back, lateral to the spine, at the level of the first thoracic vertebra.

Primary Functions

Musculoskeletal System

  • Relieves shoulder and upper back pain
  • Treats shoulder blade tension
  • Reduces neck stiffness
  • Improves shoulder mobility
  • Strengthens back and shoulder muscles
  • Treats cervical and thoracic spine issues

Respiratory System

  • Relieves chest congestion
  • Improves breathing function
  • Treats chronic cough
  • Reduces chest tightness
  • Promotes lung qi circulation

Nervous System

  • Alleviates nerve pain in shoulder
  • Reduces headaches from tension
  • Calms the nervous system
  • Treats cervical radiculopathy

Circulatory System

  • Improves circulation in upper body
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Promotes tissue healing

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Stiff neck
  • Upper back pain
  • Shoulder tension
  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder stiffness
  • Upper back stiffness

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

N/A

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

SI-14 Protocols

N/A

Important Precautions

  • Recent neck surgery
  • Severe cervical spine injury
  • Acute upper back trauma