LI9 Upper Ridge

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

LI9 (Shàng Lián, “Upper Ridge”) is an acupuncture point on the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the radial side of the forearm, on the line connecting LI5 (Yangxi) and LI11 (Quchi), 3 cun distal to the cubital crease. It clears the channel and alleviates pain, regulates the intestines and stomach.

Location

On the radial side of the forearm, on the line connecting LI5 (Yangxi) and LI11 (Quchi), 3 cun distal to the cubital crease.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun.

TCM functions

Clears the channel and alleviates pain, regulates the intestines and stomach..

Indications

Hemiplegia, numbness in the hand and arm, pain in the elbow and arm, borborygmus, abdominal pain, headache, pain in the shoulder and back..

Clinical notes

Shanglian is a local point on the Large Intestine channel used for disorders of the arm and elbow, such as pain, numbness, or motor impairment. Its indications also reflect the channel's connection to the head and abdomen, treating conditions like headache and borborygmus. While not as commonly used as other points on the channel, it is effective for channel-specific pain and dysfunction in the upper limb.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI9 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI9 located?

LI9 (Shàng Lián) is located on the radial side of the forearm, on the line connecting LI5 (Yangxi) and LI11 (Quchi), 3 cun distal to the cubital crease.

What is LI9 used for?

LI9 clears the channel and alleviates pain, regulates the intestines and stomach. Common clinical indications include hemiplegia, numbness in the hand and arm, pain in the elbow and arm, borborygmus, abdominal pain, headache, pain in the shoulder and back.

How is LI9 needled?

Perpendicular insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun.

Which meridian is LI9 on?

LI9 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.