SI11 Celestial Gathering

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

SI11 (Tianzong, “Celestial Gathering”) is an acupuncture point on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located on the scapula, in the depression in the center of the infraspinous fossa, located approximately one-third of the distance from the midpoint of the inferior border of the scapular spine to the inferior angle of the scapula. It activates the channel, alleviates pain, soothes the sinews, and benefits the shoulder and arm.

Location

On the scapula, in the depression in the center of the infraspinous fossa, located approximately one-third of the distance from the midpoint of the inferior border of the scapular spine to the inferior angle of the scapula.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion towards the medial or lateral side, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep insertion is cautioned to avoid pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Activates the channel, alleviates pain, soothes the sinews, and benefits the shoulder and arm..

Indications

Shoulder and arm pain, shoulder heaviness, shoulder blade pain, elbow pain, inability to raise the arm, cheek and jaw swelling..

Clinical notes

Tianzong is a primary local point for a wide range of shoulder and scapular disorders, especially pain located in the infraspinous region. It is frequently used for rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, and general shoulder and arm pain that restricts movement. The classical texts consistently emphasize its effectiveness for heaviness and aching in the shoulder and arm, making it indispensable for treating local channel obstruction.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI11 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

SI7SI8SI9SI10SI12SI13SI14SI15

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI11 located?

SI11 (Tianzong) is located on the scapula, in the depression in the center of the infraspinous fossa, located approximately one-third of the distance from the midpoint of the inferior border of the scapular spine to the inferior angle of the scapula.

What is SI11 used for?

SI11 activates the channel, alleviates pain, soothes the sinews, and benefits the shoulder and arm. Common clinical indications include shoulder and arm pain, shoulder heaviness, shoulder blade pain, elbow pain, inability to raise the arm, cheek and jaw swelling.

How is SI11 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion towards the medial or lateral side, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep insertion is cautioned to avoid pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is SI11 on?

SI11 is a point on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian (Shǒu Tài Yáng Xiǎo Cháng 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.