KI23 Shénfēng

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

KI23 (Shénfēng, “Shénfēng”) is an acupuncture point on the Kidney Channel Meridian. It is located on the chest, in the fourth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (Ren Mai). This point is located 1.6 cun inferior to KI22 (Lingxu). It descends rebellious Qi, unbinds the chest, and clears heat from the breast.

Location

On the chest, in the fourth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (Ren Mai). This point is located 1.6 cun inferior to KI22 (Lingxu).

Needling

Transverse-oblique insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep or perpendicular insertion carries a risk of causing a pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Descends rebellious Qi, unbinds the chest, and clears heat from the breast..

Indications

Chest and hypochondriac fullness, inability to catch one's breath, cough, rebellious Qi, vomiting, mastitis (breast abscess) with chills and fever, aversion to cold, poor appetite, short-windedness, inability to rest peacefully..

Clinical notes

Shenfeng is a key local point for disorders of the chest and breasts. Its name, 'Spirit Seal', highlights its connection to the Heart and Spirit, making it useful for chest oppression and anxiety that accompany respiratory symptoms. Clinically, it is frequently used for cough, asthma, and chest pain, and is particularly noted in classical texts for treating mastitis, especially when presenting with chills and fever.

On the Kidney Channel channel

KI23 is one of 27 points on the Kidney Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

KI19KI20KI21KI22KI24KI25KI26KI27

Frequently asked questions

Where is KI23 located?

KI23 (Shénfēng) is located on the chest, in the fourth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (Ren Mai). This point is located 1.6 cun inferior to KI22 (Lingxu).

What is KI23 used for?

KI23 descends rebellious Qi, unbinds the chest, and clears heat from the breast. Common clinical indications include chest and hypochondriac fullness, inability to catch one's breath, cough, rebellious Qi, vomiting, mastitis (breast abscess) with chills and fever, aversion to cold, poor appetite, short-windedness, inability to rest peacefully.

How is KI23 needled?

Transverse-oblique insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep or perpendicular insertion carries a risk of causing a pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is KI23 on?

KI23 is a point on the Kidney Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyīn Shènjīng).

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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.