LI 12 — Zhǒu Liáo (肘髎) — Elbow Crevice
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1. Overview
LI 12 — Zhǒu Liáo (肘髎) — is an acupuncture point on the Large Intestine meridian. Its English name, Elbow Crevice, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used in acupuncture practice as part of channel-balancing prescriptions 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. I use LI 12 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
When the elbow is flexed, the point is on the lateral side of the upper arm, 1 cun above LI-11 Quchi.
3. Actions
- Activates the channel
- Alleviates pain
- Benefits the elbow joint
4. Indications
- Pain at the elbow and arm
- Inflammation of the epicondyle of the humerus
- Wind-taxation with somnolence
- Pain and stiffness of the elbow
- Bi Syndrome of the arm
- Insensitivity and rheumatism of elbow
- Paralysis of the upper extremities
- Spasm or numbness of the arm
- Lassitude
5. Needling
Slanted insertion, along the anterior margin of the humerus, 1 to 1.5 cun. Sensation: local distention and soreness.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. Never attempt self-needling. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment in a clinical sharps container.
6. Clinical notes
LI 12 Zhǒu Liáo (Elbow Crevice) is used as part of channel-balancing prescriptions tailored to the patient’s individual TCM diagnosis.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use LI 12 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions 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.
