GB22 Armpit Abyss

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

GB22 (Yuanye, “Armpit Abyss”) is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the lateral chest, 3 cun inferior to the axilla, on the mid-axillary line, in the 4th intercostal space. It regulates Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region.

Location

On the lateral chest, 3 cun inferior to the axilla, on the mid-axillary line, in the 4th intercostal space.

Needling

Oblique insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: Pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Regulates Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region.

Indications

Fullness and pain in the chest and hypochondrium, swelling of axillary lymph nodes.

Clinical notes

GB22, Yuanye, is primarily used for regulating Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region, making it effective for intercostal neuralgia, chest oppression, and pain in the hypochondriac region. It is particularly useful for conditions arising from Liver Qi stagnation, such as distention and fullness in the lateral costal area. Clinically, it can be combined with GB23 for a broader effect on the lateral chest and flank.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB22 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB22 located?

GB22 (Yuanye) is located on the lateral chest, 3 cun inferior to the axilla, on the mid-axillary line, in the 4th intercostal space.

What is GB22 used for?

GB22 regulates Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region. Common clinical indications include fullness and pain in the chest and hypochondrium, swelling of axillary lymph nodes.

How is GB22 needled?

Oblique insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: Pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

Which meridian is GB22 on?

GB22 is a point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyáng Dǎnjīng).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.