Small Intestine Channel (Hand Taiyang)

Introduction

The Small Intestine Channel of Hand Taiyang is responsible for digestive processing, fluid regulation, and nervous system balance. It influences conditions related to shoulder pain, ear disorders, digestion, and mental clarity.

Primary Channel Pathway

  • Begins at SI-1 (Shaoze) on the ulnar side of the little finger.

  • Ascends along the posterior aspect of the arm, reaching the shoulder at SI-10 (Naoshu).

  • Travels to the scapula and neck, connects with the ear and cheek, and terminates at SI-19 (Tinggong) in front of the ear.

Primary Channel Connects with Zangfu

  • Heart

  • Stomach

  • Small Intestine

Primary Channel Meets Other Channels at Points

  • DU-14 (Dazhui)

  • ST-12 (Quepen)

  • BL-1 (Jingming)

  • BL-11 (Dazhu)

  • REN-12, REN-13, REN-17

Actions and Indications of the Small Intestine Channel

  • Regulates digestion and nutrient absorption, treating bloating, abdominal pain, and poor digestion.

  • Influences sensory organs, benefiting ear disorders, tinnitus, and vision issues.

  • Clears heat from the Heart, addressing mental agitation, restlessness, and insomnia.

  • Treats musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the shoulder, neck, and jaw.

Luo-Connecting Channel Pathway

  • Begins at SI-7 (Zhizheng).

  • Connects with the Heart Channel.

  • Ascends to the shoulder and neck, benefiting mental clarity and relaxation.

Divergent Channel Pathway

  • Separates at the shoulder, enters the axilla, and connects with the Heart.

  • Descends to the Small Intestine, influencing digestion and nutrient absorption.

Sinew Channel Pathway

  • Begins at SI-1 (Shaoze), ascends along the arm.

  • Binds at the wrist, elbow, and shoulder, continuing to the neck, cheek, and mandible.

  • Terminates at the ear and outer canthus, linking with the Bladder sinew channel.

Sinew Channel Symptoms

  • Pain, stiffness, and cramping along the arm and scapular region.

  • Jaw pain, difficulty opening or closing the mouth.

  • Tinnitus, ear infections, and vertigo.

Discussion of the Small Intestine Channel

The Small Intestine Channel of Hand Taiyang is essential for digestive function, fluid regulation, and nervous system health. It is closely related to the Heart Channel, explaining its impact on mental clarity and emotional well-being. The channel's pathway through the shoulder, neck, and jaw makes it a primary choice for treating pain syndromes, TMJ dysfunction, and tension headaches.

Explore Small Intestine Channel Points

  • SI-1 (Shaoze) – Jing-Well point, treats fever and restores consciousness.

  • SI-2 (Qiangu) – Clears heat, benefits the throat.

  • SI-3 (Houxi) – Master point of the Du Mai, treats spine and mental clarity.

  • SI-4 (Wangu) – Yuan-Source point, supports digestion and relieves pain.

  • SI-5 (Yanggu) – Jing-River point, benefits the wrist and ear.

  • SI-6 (Yanglao) – Xi-Cleft point, relieves pain and benefits vision.

  • SI-7 (Zhizheng) – Luo-Connecting point, calms the mind and clears heat.

  • SI-8 (Xiaohai) – He-Sea point, regulates digestion and removes blockages.

  • SI-9 (Jianzhen) – Benefits the shoulder and scapula.

  • SI-10 (Naoshu) – Relieves shoulder pain and stiffness.

  • SI-11 (Tianzong) – Relieves upper back pain and emotional tension.

  • SI-12 (Bingfeng) – Clears wind and benefits the shoulder.

  • SI-13 (Quyuan) – Relieves scapular pain and stiffness.

  • SI-14 (Jianwaishu) – Benefits the neck and upper back.

  • SI-15 (Jianzhongzhu) – Regulates qi and clears heat.

  • SI-16 (Tianchuang) – Benefits the throat and clears heat.

  • SI-17 (Tianrong) – Clears the throat and relieves swelling.

  • SI-18 (Quanliao) – Treats facial paralysis and relieves pain.

  • SI-19 (Tinggong) – Benefits the ear and treats hearing loss.