Triple Energizer meridian

TE-15 (Tiānliáo, 天髎) — Celestial Crevice

Meridian
Triple Energizer (TE)
Anatomical view
posterior
Point classification
Meeting point of the Triple Energizer channel and Yang Wei vessel.
Depth reference
0.5–0.8 cun, with direction and depth modified to remain superficial to the thoracic cage
Moxibustion
Not established in checked sources
Reference aliases
TE15; Tianliao; 天髎; Celestial Crevice

Anatomical location

In the scapular region, in the depression immediately above the superior angle of the scapula, midway between GB-21 and SI-13.

Traditional actions

Relaxes the shoulder and neck; dispels wind-damp; eases pain along the scapula.

Recorded indications

Primary: Shoulder or arm pain.

Secondary: Acute neck stiffness.

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 TE15, p. 165
  2. Clean Needle Technique Manual, 7th Edition Pneumothorax risk in upper trapezius and scapular regions, pp. 11–12
  3. Acupuncture.com Acupuncture Point Reference San Jiao 15; classification, functions, indications and needling

Frequently asked questions

Where is TE-15 located?

In the scapular region, in the depression immediately above the superior angle of the scapula, midway between GB-21 and SI-13.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for TE-15?

Relaxes the shoulder and neck; dispels wind-damp; eases pain along the scapula. The dataset lists these primary indications: Shoulder or arm pain. Secondary indications are recorded as: Acute neck stiffness.

Is TE-15 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify TE-15 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.