The ability to move freely and without discomfort is something we often take for granted—until pain sets in. Our shoulders play a crucial role in almost every upper-body movement, from lifting objects to reaching overhead. However, daily wear and tear, sports, or even posture-related issues can lead to pain, limiting mobility and affecting overall quality of life.
In severe cases, nerve damage and muscle weakness can ensue, further complicating recovery. Shoulder Crevice (Jian Liao, TE14) is a valuable acupoint that offers holistic support for maintaining strong, pain-free shoulders.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
Jian Liao is first mentioned in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion),” one of the oldest surviving texts on acupuncture. This acupoint is associated with the Triple Energizer meridian, an important yet non-physical organ in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). To understand the Triple Energizer, think of it as an energy traffic controller that ensures the proper flow of qi (vital energy) throughout the body. This meridian runs along the outer arm and travels upward toward the head, making it closely linked to treating pain and mobility restrictions in the upper limbs. Jian Liao plays a crucial role in regulating energy circulation in the shoulder region, making it an essential acupoint for alleviating shoulder-related discomfort.
Jian Liao is particularly unique due to its impact on the brachial plexus, a network of nerves in the shoulder that transmits movement and sensory signals from the spinal cord to the arms and hands. Injuries to the brachial plexus, often resulting from trauma to the neck or shoulder, can lead to pain, weakness, or even numbness in the affected arm. By stimulating Jian Liao, one can support the healthy functioning of this nerve network, helping to restore movement and alleviate discomfort.
Modern Medicine’s Take
The significance of Jian Liao is increasingly recognized in modern medical studies, which show that incorporating this acupoint into treatment regimens can enhance conventional therapies. For instance, one study investigated how using turmeric blistering moxibustion plaster applied to acupoints, including Jian Liao, interacted with conventional treatment protocols to address post-stroke shoulder pain. Patients receiving this combined treatment showed greater reductions in pain and improved shoulder mobility compared to those receiving only standard rehabilitation care. The benefits became more noticeable after four weeks, with improved flexibility in shoulder flexion, abduction, and rotation.A study compared the effects of electroacupuncture and Mulligan’s mobilization on shoulder pain related to rotator cuff injuries. Mulligan’s mobilization is a technique in which a therapist applies gentle pressure while the patient moves the joint to its limit. Patients who received both treatments together experienced the best outcomes, showing significant pain relief and improved shoulder function. Electroacupuncture was especially effective in reducing pain, while Mulligan’s mobilization was particularly beneficial for enhancing the range of motion. These findings highlight the effectiveness of adding acupoint stimulation as a complementary therapy to support recovery from injury.
How to Locate and Activate Jian Liao
To locate Jian Liao, extend your arms forward and parallel to the floor. You will notice a small indentation forming on the backside of your shoulder, just behind the highest point of your shoulder bone. This natural crevice is where Jian Liao is found. To confirm, gently press around this area until you find a tender spot—that’s the acupoint.Stimulating Jian Liao can be done in several ways:
- Acupressure: Apply firm pressure for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage the area in circular motions for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal Patches: Apply an herbal patch and leave it overnight for continuous stimulation.
- Heat Therapy: If direct stimulation is difficult due to mobility issues, use a hairdryer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes per side to warm up the acupoint and promote circulation.
- Advanced Therapies: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) performed by a trained TCM professional can offer deeper therapeutic effects.
Precautions
While Jian Liao is highly beneficial, there are certain cases where caution is necessary:- Avoid acupressure if you have existing injuries in the area, as pressure may exacerbate pain.
- If using herbal patches, opt for natural formulations to prevent skin irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- For those recovering from past shoulder injuries, start gently. Even if an injury is healed, underlying energy blockages can cause comparatively intense sensations during acupressure. Always begin with light pressure before increasing intensity.
The Long-Term Impact of Shoulder Care
Maintaining strong and flexible shoulders is essential for everyday activities, from carrying groceries to participating in your favorite sports. Investing in shoulder mobility now helps prevent future complications, particularly those related to the brachial plexus.
As studies suggest, consistent stimulation of acupoints like Jian Liao leads to the best long-term results. Whether through simple self-massage, heat therapy, or professional acupuncture, taking time to care for your shoulders will ensure greater comfort and movement in the years to come.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
Copy
