Large Intestine meridian

LI-3 (Sānjiān, 三间) — Third Interval

Meridian
Large Intestine (LI)
Anatomical view
anterior
Point classification
Shu-stream and Wood point of the Large Intestine channel.
Depth reference
0.5–0.8 cun perpendicular
Moxibustion
Applicable.
Reference aliases
LI3; Sanjian; 三间; Third Interval

Anatomical location

On the back of the hand, in the hollow immediately radial and proximal to the second metacarpophalangeal joint.

Traditional actions

Moves qi through the hand channel; clears wind-heat; reduces local swelling and pain.

Recorded indications

Primary: Pain or stiffness of the index finger and hand; toothache; sore throat; eye redness.

Secondary: Fever; abdominal fullness; noisy digestion; loose stool associated with an excess pattern.

How to read this reference

AcuAtlas separates anatomical location, traditional classification, recorded actions, indications, insertion-depth references, and moxibustion notes because these fields answer different study questions. The location statement is the orientation anchor. The classification and actions describe traditional reference categories, while indications summarize how checked educational sources associate the point with established teaching material. They are not a recommendation to select or stimulate the point.

Depth and moxibustion entries are reproduced as bounded reference notes rather than procedural instructions. Individual anatomy, technique, angle, clinical setting, and local professional standards can change what is appropriate. Review the cited documents and supervised training material before using any technical field. The normalized map coordinate is included only to place the point on the matching AcuAtlas body plate; it is not a substitute for palpation or anatomical assessment.

Sources

References displayed on this page were recorded with the point dataset.

  1. WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region LI3
  2. Guidelines on Basic Training and Safety in Acupuncture

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI-3 located?

On the back of the hand, in the hollow immediately radial and proximal to the second metacarpophalangeal joint.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for LI-3?

Moves qi through the hand channel; clears wind-heat; reduces local swelling and pain. The dataset lists these primary indications: Pain or stiffness of the index finger and hand; toothache; sore throat; eye redness. Secondary indications are recorded as: Fever; abdominal fullness; noisy digestion; loose stool associated with an excess pattern.

Is LI-3 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify LI-3 as one of its five mandatory pregnancy-caution points. That is not a declaration of safety. Pregnancy-related point selection requires individualized assessment by a qualified clinician.