SI-8 - Small Sea

小海 - Xiǎo hǎi

Point Region: Elbow

SI

Small Intestine Meridian

手太阳小肠经 - Shǒu Tàiyáng Xiǎochángjīng

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: On the back and inner side of the elbow, in the hollow between the point of the elbow (olecranon) and the bony bump on the inner elbow (the medial epicondyle of the humerus). With the elbow slightly bent, it lies in the groove of the ulnar nerve.

How to Locate:

  1. Bend your elbow slightly
  2. Find the point of the elbow and the bony bump on its inner side
  3. The point is in the groove between them
SI-8 (Small Sea) acupressure point location: On the back and inner side of the elbow, in the hollow between the point of the elbow (olecranon) and the bony bump on the inner elbow (the medial epicondyle of the humerus).

How to Apply Pressure

Because SI-8 lies directly over the ulnar nerve ('funny bone' groove), use only a very light fingertip touch after locating it; stop immediately if you feel tingling or shooting sensations toward the hand. Do not press after recent elbow surgery, with an elbow fracture, or during an active seizure disorder.

Traditional Indications

In TCM, this point is traditionally used for:

  • Elbow pain
  • Anxiety
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Ulnar nerve problems
  • Elbow arthritis
  • Arm numbness

Related Health Concerns

Anxiety

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

Important Precautions

Avoid this point with:

  • Recent elbow surgery
  • Severe elbow fracture
  • Active seizure disorders