SI17 Celestial Countenance

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

SI17 (Tianrong, “Celestial Countenance”) is the Window of the Sky point of the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Found posterior to the angle of the mandible, in the depression on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It benefits the throat and ear, and regulates qi.

Location

Found posterior to the angle of the mandible, in the depression on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

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, scrofula, goiter.

Window of the Sky

Clinical notes

Another crucial Window of the Sky point, SI17 excels in treating acute and chronic throat conditions, including sore throat, tonsillitis, and difficulty swallowing, often due to phlegm-heat or qi stagnation. It also benefits the ear, addressing tinnitus and deafness. Its location makes it particularly effective for local neck pain, stiffness, and scrofula, often used in conjunction with LI18 for severe throat discomfort.

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?

Found posterior to the angle of the mandible, in the depression on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

What is SI17 used for?

SI17 benefits the throat and ear, and regulates qi. Common clinical indications include sore throat, sudden hoarseness of voice, tinnitus, deafness, scrofula, goiter.

How is SI17 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 SI17 on?

SI17 is a point on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian (Shǒu Tài Yáng Xiǎo Cháng Jīng).

Interactive body mapConditions & evidenceFind an acupuncturistTCM glossary
⚠️ 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.