Location

midway between Dazhui (Du 14) and the tip of the acromion, at the crest of the trapezius muscle.

Caution; contraindicated in pregnancy

Needling

perpendicular insertion 0.3 to 0.5 inches

Caution; avoid deep insertion as there is substantial risk of puncturing the lung (pneumothorax) particularly in thin patients.

moxa is OK

Actions

Regulates Qi
Activates the channel and relieves pain
Transforms phlegm and dissipates nodules
Benefits the breast
Promotes labour

Signs and Symptoms

pain and rigidity of the neck, pain in the shoulder and back, motor impairment of the arm, insufficient lactation, mastitis, scrofula, apoplexy, difficult labour.

Commentary

The Gallbladder channel is interiorly-exteriorly related to the Liver. The emotion of the Liver is anger. When one becomes angry, frustrated, and/or resentful, Liver Qi stagnates, rises and tends to accumulate in the shoulder region causing one to hunch the shoulders. In modern society this point is almost always tender.

Jianjing may be needled in all cases of shoulder pain or discomfort, and/or neck stiffness.

Jianjing is specifically recommended for the treatment of hemiplegia (one-sided paralysis), windstroke, loss of speech due to windstroke, and goitre.

Jianjing is one of the points used to assist labour. Its strong descending action expedites delivery and hastens expulsion of the placenta. As well, Jianjing is recommended for women who overexert themselves during delivery or when recovering from miscarriage.

Finally, Jianjing is indicated for breast disorders arising out of excessive anger, frustration, or worry leading to Qi stagnation and heat accumulation.