Sanjiao Channel (Hand Shaoyang)

Introduction

The Sanjiao (Triple Burner) Channel of Hand Shaoyang regulates fluid metabolism, temperature balance, and circulation. It plays a critical role in immune function, digestion, and stress regulation, making it essential for treating edema, digestive disorders, and neck and shoulder pain.

Primary Channel Pathway

  • Begins at SJ-1 (Guanchong) on the ulnar side of the ring finger.

  • Ascends along the posterior aspect of the arm, reaching the shoulder at SJ-14 (Jianliao).

  • Travels to the neck, encircles the ear, and terminates at SJ-23 (Sizhukong) on the lateral end of the eyebrow.

Primary Channel Connects with Zangfu

  • Pericardium

  • Sanjiao (Three Jiaos: Upper, Middle, Lower)

Primary Channel Meets Other Channels at Points

  • DU-14 (Dazhui)

  • GB-1 (Tongziliao)

  • SI-12 (Bingfeng)

  • ST-12 (Quepen)

  • REN-17 (Shanzhong)

Actions and Indications of the Sanjiao Channel

  • Regulates fluid metabolism, benefiting edema, urination issues, and fluid stagnation.

  • Influences digestion and metabolism, treating bloating, poor appetite, and Spleen Qi deficiency.

  • Clears heat and wind, addressing fevers, ear infections, and headaches.

  • Relieves pain along the channel, including neck, shoulder, and elbow discomfort.

Luo-Connecting Channel Pathway

  • Begins at SJ-5 (Waiguan).

  • Ascends the arm, connecting with the Pericardium Channel.

  • Traverses the chest and disperses into the Pericardium.

Divergent Channel Pathway

  • Separates from the primary channel at the head, enters the chest, and descends through the three jiaos.

  • Emerge at the ear, influencing hearing, balance, and sensory function.

Sinew Channel Pathway

  • Begins at SJ-1 (Guanchong), binds at the wrist and elbow.

  • Ascends the upper arm, binding at the shoulder and neck.

  • Travels to the mandible and root of the tongue, terminating at the ear and outer canthus.

Sinew Channel Symptoms

  • Pain, stiffness, and spasms along the arm and shoulder.

  • Jaw pain, teeth grinding, and difficulty opening the mouth.

  • Tinnitus, dizziness, and hearing imbalances.

Discussion of the Sanjiao Channel

The Sanjiao Channel of Hand Shaoyang plays a unique role in regulating the body's three jiaos (upper, middle, and lower cavities). It influences immune function, digestion, and fluid movement, making it vital in conditions related to temperature regulation, stress, and metabolism. Its pathway through the ear and head also makes it a key channel for treating headaches, dizziness, and ENT disorders.

Explore Sanjiao Channel Points

  • SJ-1 (Guanchong) – Jing-Well point, clears heat, benefits ears.

  • SJ-2 (Yemen) – Ying-Spring point, reduces fever and alleviates pain.

  • SJ-3 (Zhongzhu) – Shu-Stream point, treats ear disorders and headaches.

  • SJ-4 (Yangchi) – Yuan-Source point, regulates digestion and clears dampness.

  • SJ-5 (Waiguan) – Luo-Connecting point, primary point for exterior conditions and immune support.

  • SJ-6 (Zhigou) – Jing-River point, regulates digestion and relieves constipation.

  • SJ-7 (Huizong) – Xi-Cleft point, clears heat and benefits the ears.

  • SJ-8 (Sanyangluo) – Harmonizes the three jiaos and relieves pain.

  • SJ-9 (Sidu) – Clears damp-heat and benefits the throat.

  • SJ-10 (Tianjing) – He-Sea point, transforms phlegm and regulates qi.

  • SJ-11 (Qinglengyuan) – Clears dampness and benefits the shoulder.

  • SJ-12 (Xiaoluo) – Relieves pain and stiffness in the arm.

  • SJ-13 (Naohui) – Benefits the shoulder and arm movement.

  • SJ-14 (Jianliao) – Benefits the shoulder and relieves pain.

  • SJ-15 (Tianliao) – Treats neck and shoulder stiffness.

  • SJ-16 (Tianyou) – Benefits the head and sensory organs.

  • SJ-17 (Yifeng) – Treats ear infections, tinnitus, and jaw pain.

  • SJ-18 (Qimai) – Calms the Shen and alleviates pain.

  • SJ-19 (Luxi) – Eliminates wind and benefits the head.

  • SJ-20 (Jiaosun) – Relieves headaches and benefits the eyes.

  • SJ-21 (Ermen) – Treats ear disorders and tinnitus.

  • SJ-22 (Heliao) – Treats migraines and facial pain.

  • SJ-23 (Sizhukong) – Eliminates wind, benefits the head and face.