SI16 Celestial Window

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

SI16 (Tianchuang, “Celestial Window”) is the Window of the Sky point of the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Located on the lateral side of the neck, posterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, at the same level as the laryngeal prominence. It is 3.5 cun lateral to the midline. It benefits the throat and ear, and regulates qi.

Location

Located on the lateral side of the neck, posterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, at the same level as the laryngeal prominence. It is 3.5 cun lateral to the midline.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution for major blood vessels and nerves.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion.

TCM functions

Benefits the throat and ear, and regulates qi.

Indications

Sore throat, sudden hoarseness of voice, tinnitus, deafness, stiff neck, facial paralysis.

Window of the Sky

Clinical notes

As a Window of the Sky point, SI16 is primarily used to address disorders of the head and special sense organs, particularly the throat and ear. It is effective for conditions like sudden hoarseness, sore throat, goiter, and tinnitus, especially when associated with qi stagnation or phlegm. Its regulatory action on qi makes it useful for local neck pain and stiffness. It is often paired with other local points for throat and neck issues.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI16 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI16 located?

Located on the lateral side of the neck, posterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, at the same level as the laryngeal prominence. It is 3.5 cun lateral to the midline.

What is SI16 used for?

SI16 benefits the throat and ear, and regulates qi. Common clinical indications include sore throat, sudden hoarseness of voice, tinnitus, deafness, stiff neck, facial paralysis.

How is SI16 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution for major blood vessels and nerves. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion.

Which meridian is SI16 on?

SI16 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.