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 chest, 1 cun anterior to GB22, in the 4th intercostal space. It regulates Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region.

Location

On the lateral chest, 1 cun anterior to GB22, 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, asthma.

Clinical notes

GB23, Zhejin, is a significant point for regulating Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region, making it highly effective for pain, distention, and fullness in the hypochondrium and intercostal spaces. It is particularly useful for conditions related to Liver Qi stagnation, such as rib-side pain and difficulty breathing due to chest constriction. It is often used with GB22 and Liver 14 to address Liver Qi stagnation in the lateral aspect of the body.

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 chest, 1 cun anterior to GB22, in the 4th intercostal space.

What is GB23 used for?

GB23 regulates Qi and blood in the chest and lateral costal region. Common clinical indications include fullness and pain in the chest and hypochondrium, asthma.

How is GB23 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 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.