Location

In the depression which lies anterior and inferior to the acromion, at the origin of the deltoid muscle.

Note Jianliao (SJ 14) lies in the depression posterior and inferior to the acromion.
If the arm is abducted, the two hollows will be more easily palpated and visible.

Needling

with arm abducted, perpendicular insertion directed towards the centre of the axilla (armpit).

Moxa is OK

Actions

Dispels wind/damp, alleviates pain, benefits shoulder joint
Eliminates wind and regulates Qi and Blood
Regulates Qi and dissipates phlegm nodules.

Indications

pain in the shoulder/arm, motor impairment, rubella, scrofula,

Commentary:

Jianyu is the meeting point for several channels in the body, but its main action is local. It is the point of choice for all disorders of the shoulder.

The Large Intestine channel is a Yang channel and since all Yang channels are considered to be 'abundant in Qi and Blood', needling promotes circulation of Qi and Blood in the upper limbs as a whole. Jianju is indicated for any kind of atrophy disorder, painful obstruction and even for the effects of stroke. In this case it is often combined with Quchi (Li 11) and Hegu (Li 4) to strongly promote the flow of Qi and Blood up and down the extremities and even up into the head.