LI18 Protuberance Beside

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

LI18 (Fú Tū, “Protuberance Beside”) is the Window of the Sky point of the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the neck, 3 cun lateral to the laryngeal prominence, between the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It benefits throat and voice, regulates Qi and blood.

Location

On the neck, 3 cun lateral to the laryngeal prominence, between the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the carotid artery and jugular vein.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

TCM functions

Benefits throat and voice, regulates Qi and blood.

Indications

Cough, asthma, sore throat, sudden hoarseness, scrofula, goiter.

Window of the Sky

Clinical notes

LI-18 is a crucial Window of the Sky point, renowned for its ability to regulate Qi and blood flow to the head and sense organs. It is primarily used for acute and chronic throat conditions, such as sore throat, loss of voice, and difficulty swallowing, especially when related to Qi stagnation or rebellion. It also effectively addresses goiter and scrofula, making it a key point for neck and throat masses. Clinically, it is often paired with ST-9 (Rén Yíng) to harmonize Qi and blood in the neck.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI18 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI18 located?

LI18 (Fú Tū) is located on the neck, 3 cun lateral to the laryngeal prominence, between the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

What is LI18 used for?

LI18 benefits throat and voice, regulates Qi and blood. Common clinical indications include cough, asthma, sore throat, sudden hoarseness, scrofula, goiter.

How is LI18 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the carotid artery and jugular vein. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

Which meridian is LI18 on?

LI18 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.