SI-15 - Middle Shoulder Shu

肩中俞 - Jiān zhōng shū

Point Region: Upper back

SI

Small Intestine Meridian

手太阳小肠经 - Shǒu Tàiyáng Xiǎochángjīng

SI-15 Jianzhongshu, meaning 'Central Shoulder Point,' is a local point for neck and shoulder 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 neck. Its name, 'Central Shoulder Point,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.

Think of Jianzhongshu as a point that helps to 'straighten the neck' of your body. It's invaluable for addressing issues like neck pain, a feeling of 'stuckness' in the neck, 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-15 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 posterior neck, lateral to the spine at the level of the seventh cervical vertebra.

How to Locate:

  1. Find the most prominent bone at the base of your neck
  2. Move outward from this point toward your shoulder
  3. This is where your neck meets your shoulder area
  4. The point is lateral to your neck spine
Location illustration for Located on the posterior neck, lateral to the spine at the level of the seventh cervical vertebra.

Primary Functions

Musculoskeletal System

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

Respiratory System

  • Relieves chest congestion
  • Improves breathing capacity
  • Treats asthma and bronchitis
  • Reduces shortness of breath
  • Promotes lung function

Nervous System

  • Alleviates intercostal neuralgia
  • Reduces nerve pain in back
  • Calms the nervous system
  • Treats stress and anxiety

Circulatory System

  • Improves circulation in chest and back
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Promotes healing of muscle tension

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder stiffness
  • Upper back tension
  • Cervical problems
  • Neck stiffness
  • Shoulder pain

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

Neck/Shoulder Pain

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

SI-15 Protocols

N/A

Important Precautions

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