SI 8 — Xiǎo Hǎi (小海) — Small Sea
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1. Overview
SI 8 — Xiǎo Hǎi (小海) — is an acupuncture point on the Small Intestine meridian. Its English name, Small Sea, 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 groove between the olecranon and medial epicondyle of the humerus, with the elbow flexed.
3. Actions
- He-Sea point of the Small Intestine — clears Heat and calms the Mind
- Activates the meridian and relieves elbow and arm pain
- Resolves Phlegm
4. Indications
- Medial elbow pain and ulnar nerve symptoms
- Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Tinnitus and deafness via the Small Intestine channel
- Neck pain and shoulder pain
- Epilepsy from Phlegm
5. Needling
Perpendicular insertion 0.3–0.5 cun.
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
SI 8 is the He-Sea and Earth point of the Small Intestine meridian. Located in the ulnar groove, needling here produces a strong electrical sensation down the ulnar nerve distribution — confirming correct location. It is used for medial elbow pain and conditions affecting the ulnar nerve, combined with HT 3 and local ashi points for golfer's elbow.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use SI 8 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Golfer's elbow, 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.
