Small Intestine meridian

SI-11 (Tiānzōng, 天宗) — Heavenly Gathering

Meridian
Small Intestine (SI)
Anatomical view
posterior
Point classification
Major local point of the Small Intestine channel on the scapula.
Depth reference
Superficial oblique insertion only; do not rely on the scapula as a continuous bony shield
Moxibustion
Applicable according to the checked point reference
Reference aliases
SI11; Tianzong; 天宗; Heavenly Gathering

Anatomical location

In the infraspinous region of the scapula, at the junction of the upper third and lower two thirds of a line from the midpoint of the scapular spine to the inferior angle.

Traditional actions

Moves qi in the chest and scapula; relieves pain; traditionally benefits the breast.

Recorded indications

Primary: Scapular pain; shoulder stiffness; pain radiating into the arm; breast discomfort.

Secondary: Chest fullness; cough.

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 SI11, p. 93
  2. American Dragon Acupuncture Point Reference SI-11: Actions, Indications, Needling and moxa
  3. Safety in Clinical Practice p. 12: SI11 and possible scapular foramen
  4. Safety Guidelines: Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Section 4.2, p. 13: SI11 superficial or oblique needling due to congenital foramen

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI-11 located?

In the infraspinous region of the scapula, at the junction of the upper third and lower two thirds of a line from the midpoint of the scapular spine to the inferior angle.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for SI-11?

Moves qi in the chest and scapula; relieves pain; traditionally benefits the breast. The dataset lists these primary indications: Scapular pain; shoulder stiffness; pain radiating into the arm; breast discomfort. Secondary indications are recorded as: Chest fullness; cough.

Is SI-11 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify SI-11 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.