Which area should be needled for stiff neck?
Dec 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
For stiff neck, acupuncture at points such as Fengchi (GB20), Wailaogong (Extra point), and Tianzhu (BL10) can generally provide relief. The precise location of the Tianzhu point is in the posterior neck region, within the depression at the lateral border of the trapezius muscle. This point helps dispel wind, resolve exterior patterns, relax tendons, unblock meridians, improve vision, and benefit the brain. It is also highly effective for treating shoulder stiffness and stiff neck. Additionally, other acupoints such as cervical Jiaji points and Dazhui (GV14) may be selected.
For stiff neck, acupuncture at points such as Fengchi (GB20), Wailaogong (Extra point), and Tianzhu (BL10) can generally help relieve symptoms.
1. Fengchi (GB20)
Fengchi is located in the posterior neck, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and trapezius muscle, level with the earlobe. It is primarily used to treat external pathogenic conditions and neck-shoulder pain. Acupuncture at this point helps alleviate local muscle tension and pain.
2. Wailaogong (Extra point)
Wailaogong is located on the back of the hand, in the depression 0.5 cun posterior to the junction of the second and third metacarpophalangeal joints. This point is effective for treating stiff neck and cervical spondylosis. Stimulating Wailaogong promotes blood circulation, unblocks meridians, dispels wind, and relieves pain.
3. Tianzhu (BL10)
Tianzhu is precisely located in the posterior neck region, in the depression at the lateral border of the trapezius muscle. It functions to dispel wind, resolve exterior syndromes, relax muscles, unblock meridians, improve vision, and benefit the brain. It is also highly effective in treating shoulder stiffness and stiff neck.
In addition, other acupoints such as cervical Jiaji points, Dazhui (GV14), and Juegu (GB39) may be selected based on individual conditions for treatment.
