CV 22 — Tiān Tū (天突) — Celestial Chimney

On this page

1. Overview
2. Location
3. Actions
4. Indications
5. Needling
6. Clinical notes
7. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

CV 22 — Tiān Tū (天突) — is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) meridian. Its English name, Celestial Chimney, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used regularly in acupuncture practice for a range of conditions.

I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience, practising at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.

2. Location

In the centre of the suprasternal fossa, at the superior border of the sternum.

3. Actions

1. Descends Lung Qi and relieves cough and wheezing
2. Resolves Phlegm and clears the throat
3. Benefits the voice
4. Treats goitre and throat swellings

4. Indications

1. Cough and asthma from Phlegm obstruction
2. Sore throat, pharyngitis and laryngitis
3. Loss of voice (aphonia)
4. Goitre and neck swellings
5. Globus sensation (plum-pit qi) in the throat

5. Needling

Insert perpendicularly 0.2 cun first, then redirect the needle inferiorly behind the sternum 1.0–1.5 cun. Never angle laterally — carotid arteries lie on both sides.

Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of in a clinical sharps container immediately after treatment.

6. Clinical notes

CV 22 requires very careful needling technique — the trachea and major vessels lie in the suprasternal fossa and incorrect angle causes serious injury. The two-stage technique (perpendicular then inferior redirection) must be strictly followed. Combined with PC 6, ST 40 and LU 7 it forms the prescription for Phlegm-type cough and asthma.

7. Treatment at my clinic

I use CV 22 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Allergies. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.