Shouwuli Point (LI-13 / Hand Five Li)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Shouwuli (LI-13 / Hand Five Li). Learn its indications for arm swelling, upper limb immobility, scrofula, and blurred vision, plus classic combinations with Quchi, Tongli, and other points.
Indications
Regulates qi and disperses nodules, unblocks the meridians and collaterals. Treats arm swelling and pain, upper limb immobility, malaria, scrofula, wind-fatigue with palpitations, hematemesis and cough, elbow and arm pain, excessive sleeping, immobility of the four limbs, epigastric fullness, upward qi rebellion, yellowing of the body, occasional mild fever, and blurred vision.
Precise Location
On the arm, 3 cun above the elbow crease, on the line connecting Quchi (LI-11) and Jianyu (LI-15). On the lateral side of the arm, 4 finger-widths (approximately 3 cun) above Quchi.
Location Method
Flex the elbow and locate Quchi first. Measure 4 finger-widths (about 3 cun) upward from Quchi along the line connecting Quchi and Jianyu. The point is where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press, knead, or pluck with the thumb. ② Scraping therapy: Scrape from top to bottom for 3–5 minutes, once every other day. Pressing, kneading, or plucking Shouwuli can prevent and treat shoulder, arm, and elbow pain. Therapeutic actions: Regulates qi and disperses nodules, unblocks the meridians and collaterals.
Compatibility
Upper limb immobility: Combine with Quchi (LI-11). Arm redness, swelling and pain: Combine with Quchi (LI-11), Tongli (HT-5), Zhongzhu (TE-3), Hegu (LI-4), and Chize (LU-5). Scrofula: Combine with Daying (ST-5) and Binao (LI-14). Excessive sleeping with unwillingness to move the limbs: Combine with Sanyangluo (TE-8), Sanjian (LI-3), Lidui (ST-45), and Tianjing (TE-10).