SI19 Tinggong

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

SI19 (Tinggong, “Tinggong”) is an acupuncture point on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located anterior to the tragus, in the depression formed when the mouth is opened, between the tragus and the condyloid process of the mandible. It opens the orifices of the ear, calms the spirit, and alleviates pain.

Location

Anterior to the tragus, in the depression formed when the mouth is opened, between the tragus and the condyloid process of the mandible.

Needling

With the patient's mouth slightly open, insert the needle perpendicularly 0.5 to 1.0 cun. The needle is aimed slightly posteriorly toward the ear canal.

TCM functions

Opens the orifices of the ear, calms the spirit, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Deafness, tinnitus like the sound of cicadas, fullness in the chest and abdomen, madness, epilepsy, convulsions, lockjaw, foaming at the mouth, throat constriction, muteness, bone soreness, dizziness, mania, jaw pain, toothache..

Clinical notes

Tinggong is a crucial local point for a wide range of ear disorders, particularly deafness and tinnitus, as its name 'Palace of Hearing' suggests. The classical texts emphasize its connection to the Shaoyang channels, making it effective for conditions involving both the ear and the jaw, such as TMJ disorders. Its indications for epilepsy, mania, and convulsions highlight a significant classical function of calming the spirit and clearing disturbances from the head's orifices.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI19 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI19 located?

SI19 (Tinggong) is located anterior to the tragus, in the depression formed when the mouth is opened, between the tragus and the condyloid process of the mandible.

What is SI19 used for?

SI19 opens the orifices of the ear, calms the spirit, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include deafness, tinnitus like the sound of cicadas, fullness in the chest and abdomen, madness, epilepsy, convulsions, lockjaw, foaming at the mouth, throat constriction, muteness, bone soreness, dizziness, mania, jaw pain, toothache.

How is SI19 needled?

With the patient's mouth slightly open, insert the needle perpendicularly 0.5 to 1.0 cun. The needle is aimed slightly posteriorly toward the ear canal.

Which meridian is SI19 on?

SI19 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.