Where is the Shenmen acupoint located?
Aug 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
The Shenmen point refers to a specific acupoint, which is one of the points on the Heart Meridian of Hand-Shaoyin in the wrist area. On the transverse wrist crease, when making a fist or turning the palm upward, a prominent tendon adjacent to the hypothenar eminence can be palpated; this is the tendon of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. The depression on the radial side of this tendon is the location of the Shenmen point. Anatomically, the Shenmen point lies relatively deep, situated between the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle and the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle.
Generally speaking, the "Shenmen" point refers to the Shenmen acupoint, which is one of the acupoints of the Heart Meridian of Hand-Shaoyin, located in the wrist area. The specific analysis is as follows:
On the wrist crease, when making a fist tightly or turning the palm upward, a prominent tendon can be felt beside the hypothenar eminence; this is the tendon of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. The depression on the radial side of this tendon is the Shenmen acropoint. The anatomical location of the Shenmen point is relatively deep, situated between the flexor carpi ulnaris and the flexor digitorum superficialis muscles, with the flexor digitorum profundus muscle located deeper. The ulnar artery passes through this area, and the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve is distributed here, with the ulnar nerve located on the ulnar side. The Shenmen point is one of the commonly used acupoints in clinical practice and is primarily used for treating heart diseases, irritability, palpitations, forgetfulness, insomnia, mental disorders such as epilepsy and mania, as well as chest and rib pain. Notably, the Shenmen point has a good regulatory effect on insomnia symptoms.
When performing acupoint massage or acupuncture, it is important to ensure proper technique and avoid excessive force or improper manipulation that may cause injury. If you have any concerns or experience discomfort, please consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly.
