Tianzong SI-11
Chinese: 天宗
Pinyin: Tiān Zōng
Location
In the intrascapular fossa, at the junction of the upper and middle third of the distance between the lower border of the scapular spine and the inferior angle of the scapula.
How to locate
The patient is better to be seated in a relaxed way with arms hanging down.
Draw an imaginary line from the midpoint of the scapular spine to the inferior angle of the scapula. Tianzong SI-11 is located at the junction of the upper and middle third of this line, in a depression on the infraspinatus muscle, which is often sensitive to pressure.
Also, Tianzong SI-11 is generally at the same level as the gap between the 4th and the 5th spinous process (T4 and T5).
Main actions
- Opens the Channel
- Opens the chest
- Benefits the breasts
Needling
0.5–1.5 cun vertically or obliquely into the muscle tissue.
Commentary for Tianzong SI-11
Like its neighboring point Jianzhen SI-9 and Naoshu SI-10, Tianzong SI-11 is also effective in opening the Channel, so as to treat stiffness and pain of the shoulder as well as scapula. It should always be checked for sensitivity when selecting local points for Painful Obstruction Syndrome.
A Reducing Needling Technique should be used for needling, followed by moxa.
Another function of this point is to open the chest, so as to relieve pain and fullness in the chest and lateral costal regions. For postpartum women, it also benefits the breasts by relieving breast abscess and engorgement. Therefore, it increase breast milk supplies.