LI 3 — Sān Jiān (三间) — Third Space
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1. Overview
LI 3 — Sān Jiān (三间) — is an acupuncture point on the Large Intestine meridian. Its English name, Third Space, 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 3 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
In the depression, behind the capitulum of the second metacarpal bone, at the radial side of the index finger.
3. Actions
- Dispels Exterior Wind
- Clears Heat
- Expels Wind and Heat
- Brightens the eyes
- Benefits the throat and teeth
- Dispels fullness
- Treats diarrhea
4. Indications
- Toothache
- Sore throat
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Eyes painful
- Malaria
- Inflammation of the dorsum of the hand
- Tonsillitis
- Children's complaints
- Somnolence
5. Needling
Straight insertion, 0.3 cun.
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 3 Sān Jiān (Third Space) is classified as: Shu -Stream (Transporting) point; Wood point; Secondary Sedation point. These classifications inform how the point is used in clinical practice. The point is typically combined with other channel points to form a balanced prescription based on the patient’s individual TCM diagnosis.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use LI 3 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Diarrhea, Constipation, Tinnitus. 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.
