Spleen meridian
SP-18 (Tiānxī, 天溪) — Heavenly Stream
- Meridian
- Spleen (SP)
- Anatomical view
- anterior
- Point classification
- Spleen-channel point in the fourth intercostal space.
- Depth reference
- 0.3–0.5 cun transverse or oblique along the intercostal space
- Moxibustion
- Applicable with caution
- Reference aliases
- SP18; Tianxi; 天溪; Heavenly Stream
Anatomical location
On the anterior chest, in the fourth intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Traditional actions
Opens the chest; regulates qi; traditionally benefits the breast.
Recorded indications
Primary: Chest tightness; cough; breast pain or swelling; shortness of breath.
Secondary: Pain along the lateral chest wall.
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.
- WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region SP18, p. 78
- Guidelines on Basic Training and Safety in Acupuncture Sections II, 5.1 and 5.2 Lung and pleura, pp. 24–25
- American Dragon Acupuncture Point Reference SP-18: Actions, Indications, Needling, moxa and pneumothorax caution
Frequently asked questions
Where is SP-18 located?
On the anterior chest, in the fourth intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
What reference actions and indications are recorded for SP-18?
Opens the chest; regulates qi; traditionally benefits the breast. The dataset lists these primary indications: Chest tightness; cough; breast pain or swelling; shortness of breath. Secondary indications are recorded as: Pain along the lateral chest wall.
Is SP-18 safe during pregnancy?
This dataset does not identify SP-18 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.