SI13 Curved Wall

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

SI13 (Quyuan, “Curved Wall”) is an acupuncture point on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located on the superior aspect of the scapula, in the depression superior to the medial end of the spine of the scapula, approximately at the midpoint between SI10 (Naoshu) and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2). It activates the channel, alleviates pain, and relaxes the sinews of the shoulder and scapula.

Location

On the superior aspect of the scapula, in the depression superior to the medial end of the spine of the scapula, approximately at the midpoint between SI10 (Naoshu) and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion towards the spine, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution is advised to avoid deep needling to prevent pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Activates the channel, alleviates pain, and relaxes the sinews of the shoulder and scapula..

Indications

Shoulder pain, circumferential Bi syndrome of the scapula, shoulder Bi with heat and pain, qi stagnation with stiffness and oppressive pain in the shoulder and scapula..

Clinical notes

Quyuan is a key local point for pain and stiffness in the suprascapular region. The classical sources consistently describe it as being tender to palpation, making it an effective 'ashi' point for conditions affecting the supraspinatus muscle and surrounding tissues. Its indications for Bi syndrome, stiffness, and pain make it useful for various forms of shoulder pathology, including rotator cuff issues and general scapular tension.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI13 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

SI9SI10SI11SI12SI14SI15SI16SI17

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI13 located?

SI13 (Quyuan) is located on the superior aspect of the scapula, in the depression superior to the medial end of the spine of the scapula, approximately at the midpoint between SI10 (Naoshu) and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).

What is SI13 used for?

SI13 activates the channel, alleviates pain, and relaxes the sinews of the shoulder and scapula. Common clinical indications include shoulder pain, circumferential Bi syndrome of the scapula, shoulder Bi with heat and pain, qi stagnation with stiffness and oppressive pain in the shoulder and scapula.

How is SI13 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion towards the spine, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution is advised to avoid deep needling to prevent pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall. The Qian Jin Yao Fang lists Quyuan among the points that should not be needled or moxa'd during the fourth month of pregnancy.

Which meridian is SI13 on?

SI13 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.