LI10 Arm Three Miles

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

LI10 (Shousanli, “Arm Three Miles”) is an acupuncture point on the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the postero-lateral aspect of the forearm, on the line connecting LI5 (Yangxi) and LI11 (Quchi), 2 cun distal to the cubital crease at LI11. It activates the channel, alleviates pain, harmonizes the intestines and stomach.

Location

On the postero-lateral aspect of the forearm, on the line connecting LI5 (Yangxi) and LI11 (Quchi), 2 cun distal to the cubital crease at LI11.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun, or oblique insertion distally or proximally 1.5 to 2.5 cun.

TCM functions

Activates the channel, alleviates pain, harmonizes the intestines and stomach..

Indications

Arm pain, forearm pain, hemiplegia, toothache, cheek swelling, scrofula, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, paralysis of the upper limb, motor impairment of the arm, numbness of the hand and arm, pain of the shoulder and back..

Clinical notes

Shousanli is a primary distal point for pain and motor impairment of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Its name, 'Arm Three Miles,' mirrors the systemic importance of 'Leg Three Miles' (ST36), and it is similarly used for regulating its associated organ, the Large Intestine, treating conditions like abdominal pain and diarrhea. It is also effective for facial issues along the channel pathway, such as toothache and cheek swelling.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI10 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI10 located?

LI10 (Shousanli) is located on the postero-lateral aspect of the forearm, on the line connecting LI5 (Yangxi) and LI11 (Quchi), 2 cun distal to the cubital crease at LI11.

What is LI10 used for?

LI10 activates the channel, alleviates pain, harmonizes the intestines and stomach. Common clinical indications include arm pain, forearm pain, hemiplegia, toothache, cheek swelling, scrofula, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, paralysis of the upper limb, motor impairment of the arm, numbness of the hand and arm, pain of the shoulder and back.

How is LI10 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun, or oblique insertion distally or proximally 1.5 to 2.5 cun.

Which meridian is LI10 on?

LI10 is a point on the Large Intestine Meridian (Shǒu Yángmíng Dàcháng Jīng).

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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.