SI-9 - True Shoulder
肩贞 - Jiān zhēn
Point Region: Upper back
SI-9 Jianzhen, meaning 'Shoulder Upright,' is a local point for shoulder and upper arm disorders. Located on the shoulder, it is a key point for addressing a wide range of issues that are caused by stagnation or excess heat in the arm. Its name, 'Shoulder Upright,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of order and harmony to the body's entire system.
Think of Jianzhen 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-9 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 with the arm adducted, posterior to the shoulder joint.
How to Locate:
- Let your arm hang naturally at your side
- Feel behind your shoulder joint
- Find the depression behind the round part of your shoulder
- The point is in this hollow behind the shoulder
Primary Functions
Musculoskeletal System
- Relieves shoulder pain and stiffness
- Treats frozen shoulder
- Reduces arm pain and numbness
- Improves shoulder mobility
- Strengthens shoulder muscles
- Treats rotator cuff injuries
Nervous System
- Alleviates nerve pain in the arm
- Reduces tingling and numbness
- Treats brachial neuralgia
- Calms local nerve inflammation
Circulatory System
- Improves circulation in the shoulder
- Reduces swelling and inflammation
- Promotes healing of shoulder injuries
Immune & Energy System
- Strengthens local qi circulation
- Promotes tissue repair
- Enhances recovery from injuries
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Shoulder pain
- Arm numbness
- Motor impairment
- Frozen shoulder
- Shoulder stiffness
- Arm paralysis
- Brachial nerve problems
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
SI-9 Protocols
N/A
Important Precautions
- Recent shoulder surgery
- Severe shoulder dislocation
- Acute shoulder fracture