What is the precise location of the Jianliao (Shoulder Ravine) acupoint, and what are its functions and benefits?

Located behind the Jianyu point in the shoulder region, the Jianliao acupoint has various therapeutic effects, including promoting the rising of clear qi and descending of turbid qi, activating blood circulation to remove blood stasis, regulating qi and blood, relieving joint pain, and alleviating rheumatic conditions. Specific details are as follows:

I. Location

Jianliao is an acupoint belonging to the meridian system, situated at the shoulder, posterior to the Jianyu point. To locate it, one can abduct the arm to identify the acromion; just below the acromion there is a depression, which marks the position of the Jianliao acupoint.

II. Functions and Effects

1. Promotes the Rising of Clear Qi and Descending of Turbid Qi
This acupoint belongs to the Triple Energizer Meridian of the Hand-Shaoyang. Stimulating this point helps regulate the ascending of clear qi and descending of turbid qi. If excessive turbid qi accumulates in the body, stimulating Jianliao may assist in expelling it.

2. Activates Blood Circulation and Removes Blood Stasis
As this acupoint lies near a joint, blockages in its associated meridian or poor blood circulation may easily lead to local disorders. Appropriate acupuncture or stimulation of Jianliao can help improve such symptoms by promoting blood flow and resolving blood stasis.

3. Regulates Qi and Blood
Massaging or stimulating the Jianliao acupoint activates the local meridians and enhances the flow of qi and blood. In traditional Chinese medicine, smooth and abundant qi and blood circulation are vital for health. Stimulating this point helps unblock related meridians and promotes the circulation and balance of qi and blood.

4. Relieves Joint Pain
Patients with shoulder strain, cervical spine disorders, or similar conditions often experience difficulty raising their arms, usually due to impaired local blood flow. Stimulating the Jianliao acupoint can alleviate symptoms of joint disorders and serve as adjunctive therapy.

5. Alleviates Rheumatic Conditions
Rheumatic diseases are commonly caused by prolonged exposure to cold and insufficient rest in affected areas, leading to stagnation in local meridians. Stimulating the Jianliao acupoint may help restore meridian function and provide supportive treatment for such conditions.

Patients should massage this acupoint only under proper medical guidance. Additionally, they should maintain warmth in daily life and avoid excessive fatigue.