GB23 Flank Sinews

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

GB23 (Zhejin, “Flank Sinews”) is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the lateral aspect of the chest, in the 4th intercostal space, 1 cun anterior to the mid-axillary line. This is located 1 cun anterior to YuanYe (GB22), which is 3 cun inferior to the apex of the axilla. It expands the chest, regulates Qi, and alleviates fullness and pain.

Location

On the lateral aspect of the chest, in the 4th intercostal space, 1 cun anterior to the mid-axillary line. This is located 1 cun anterior to YuanYe (GB22), which is 3 cun inferior to the apex of the axilla.

Needling

Oblique insertion 0.3-0.5 cun along the intercostal space. Avoid deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax.

TCM functions

Expands the chest, regulates Qi, and alleviates fullness and pain..

Indications

Sudden fullness in the chest, inability to lie down, wheezing, shortness of breath, vomiting of undigested food, acid regurgitation..

Clinical notes

Zhejin is a local point on the Gallbladder channel primarily used for acute conditions of chest constraint and respiratory distress. Its classical indications point to its effectiveness for sudden chest fullness that is so severe it prevents the patient from lying down, accompanied by wheezing. It can also address rebellious Stomach Qi, such as vomiting and acid reflux, when it affects the chest and diaphragm.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB23 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB23 located?

GB23 (Zhejin) is located on the lateral aspect of the chest, in the 4th intercostal space, 1 cun anterior to the mid-axillary line. This is located 1 cun anterior to YuanYe (GB22), which is 3 cun inferior to the apex of the axilla.

What is GB23 used for?

GB23 expands the chest, regulates Qi, and alleviates fullness and pain. Common clinical indications include sudden fullness in the chest, inability to lie down, wheezing, shortness of breath, vomiting of undigested food, acid regurgitation.

How is GB23 needled?

Oblique insertion 0.3-0.5 cun along the intercostal space. Avoid deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax.

Which meridian is GB23 on?

GB23 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.