LI16 Jugu

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

LI16 (Jugu, “Jugu”) is the Meeting point of LI & Yang Qiao point of the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the superior aspect of the shoulder, in the depression formed between the acromial end of the clavicle and the spine of the scapula. It activates the channel, alleviates pain, resolves blood stasis.

Location

On the superior aspect of the shoulder, in the depression formed between the acromial end of the clavicle and the spine of the scapula.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax and should be avoided.

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TCM functions

Activates the channel, alleviates pain, resolves blood stasis..

Indications

Shoulder and arm pain, inability to raise the arm, arm pain preventing flexion and extension, chest fullness with blood stasis, vomiting blood, fright epilepsy, shoulder pain that prevents movement..

Meeting point of LI & Yang Qiao

Clinical notes

Jugu is a key local point for shoulder disorders, particularly those involving the acromioclavicular joint. Its indications for pain, stiffness, and inability to raise the arm are well-supported by the classics. The classical controversy over needling—from being forbidden to a depth of 1.5 cun—highlights the need for caution, likely due to the proximity of the lung apex. Moxibustion appears to be a consistently safe and recommended classical therapy for this point.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI16 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

LI12LI13LI14LI15LI17LI18LI19LI20

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI16 located?

LI16 (Jugu) is located on the superior aspect of the shoulder, in the depression formed between the acromial end of the clavicle and the spine of the scapula.

What is LI16 used for?

LI16 activates the channel, alleviates pain, resolves blood stasis. Common clinical indications include shoulder and arm pain, inability to raise the arm, arm pain preventing flexion and extension, chest fullness with blood stasis, vomiting blood, fright epilepsy, shoulder pain that prevents movement.

How is LI16 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax and should be avoided. Caution: One classical source (Ming Tang) forbids needling, stating it causes a sensation of being 'hung upside down' (倒懸). Another source (Huangdi Neijing) lists it as a point of the Hand Taiyang (Small Intestine) channel, not the Hand Yangming (Large Intestine).

Which meridian is LI16 on?

LI16 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.