SI17 Tianrong

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

SI17 (Tianrong, “Tianrong”) is the Window of Heaven point of the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located on the side of the neck, in the depression posterior to the angle of the mandible and anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It descends rebellious Qi, benefits the throat and ears, clears heat, and reduces swelling.

Location

On the side of the neck, in the depression posterior to the angle of the mandible and anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Needling

Perpendicular or slightly posterior insertion 0.5 to 1.0 cun, avoiding the external jugular vein and carotid artery.

TCM functions

Descends rebellious Qi, benefits the throat and ears, clears heat, and reduces swelling..

Indications

Deafness, ear ringing like cicadas, chest fullness, inability to breathe, cough with rebellious Qi, vomiting foam, goiter, neck carbuncles, inability to turn the head, inability to speak, chest pain, tooth lockjaw, head and neck carbuncles and swelling, cold and heat sensations, hernia and accumulations in the chest with pain that prevents bending..

Window of Heaven

Clinical notes

Tianrong is a key point for descending rebellious Qi from the head and chest, making it effective for severe asthma, wheezing, and chest fullness. Its location also makes it a primary local point for disorders of the neck, throat, and ear, such as goiter, swollen glands, sore throat, and deafness. The Neijing specifically recommends it for 'Yang Qi grand counterflow' filling the chest, with shortness of breath and aversion to dust and smoke.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI17 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI17 located?

SI17 (Tianrong) is located on the side of the neck, in the depression posterior to the angle of the mandible and anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

What is SI17 used for?

SI17 descends rebellious Qi, benefits the throat and ears, clears heat, and reduces swelling. Common clinical indications include deafness, ear ringing like cicadas, chest fullness, inability to breathe, cough with rebellious Qi, vomiting foam, goiter, neck carbuncles, inability to turn the head, inability to speak, chest pain, tooth lockjaw, head and neck carbuncles and swelling, cold and heat sensations, hernia and accumulations in the chest with pain that prevents bending.

How is SI17 needled?

Perpendicular or slightly posterior insertion 0.5 to 1.0 cun, avoiding the external jugular vein and carotid artery.

Which meridian is SI17 on?

SI17 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.