TE-15 - Heavenly Crevice
天髎 - tiān liáo
Point Region: Shoulder
TE-15 Tianliao, meaning 'Heavenly Crevice,' is a point that clears heat and eases neck and shoulder tension. Located on the shoulder, it is a key point for addressing a wide range of issues that are caused by 'heat' or stagnation in the upper body. Its name, 'Heavenly Crevice,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of coolness and clarity to a 'heated' system.
Think of Tianliao as a point that helps to cool down an 'overheated' system. It's invaluable for addressing issues like a stiff neck, shoulder pain, and a feeling of 'heat' in the neck. By clearing heat and easing neck and shoulder tension, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.
By clearing heat and easing neck and shoulder tension, TE-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: In the depression superior to the scapula, near the medial border of the trapezius
How to Locate:
- Reach across and touch the top of your opposite shoulder blade
- Find the depression above your shoulder blade near your neck
- This is where your neck muscle meets your shoulder blade
- The point is in this hollow above the shoulder blade
Primary Functions
Musculoskeletal System
- Treats shoulder and neck pain
- Relieves cervical spine tension
- Reduces muscle spasms in neck/shoulder
- Improves neck and shoulder mobility
Nervous System
- Treats cervical nerve disorders
- Reduces nerve compression symptoms
- Calms nervous system irritation
- Improves nerve function
Circulatory System
- Improves circulation to head and neck
- Reduces vascular tension
- Strengthens qi and blood flow
- Supports lymphatic drainage
Respiratory System
- Treats breathing difficulties from neck tension
- Improves chest and throat qi flow
- Reduces respiratory restrictions
- Supports lung function
Endocrine & Metabolic System
- Regulates triple energizer to head region
- Balances energy flow upward
- Supports metabolic circulation
- Harmonizes organ coordination
Emotional & Mental
- Reduces stress and tension
- Calms mental anxiety
- Promotes emotional stability
- Enhances mental clarity
Eye & Vision System
- Treats eye strain and fatigue
- Improves vision clarity
- Reduces eye inflammation
- Supports eye circulation
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Neck stiffness
- Shoulder pain
- Chest oppression
- Stiff neck
- Shoulder tension
- Chest tightness
- Upper back pain
- Neck pain
- Breathing difficulty
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
TE-15 Protocols
N/A
Important Precautions
- Recent neck surgery
- Severe cervical spine injury
- Acute shoulder blade fracture