SI6 Support the Aged

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

SI6 (Yǎnglǎo, “Support the Aged”) is the Xi-cleft point of the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located on the dorsal aspect of the forearm, in the cleft between the ulna and the radius, 1 cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease. To locate, place the palm on the chest, then find the point in the bony cleft on the ulnar side. It benefits the shoulder and arm, improves vision.

Location

On the dorsal aspect of the forearm, in the cleft between the ulna and the radius, 1 cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease. To locate, place the palm on the chest, then find the point in the bony cleft on the ulnar side.

Needling

Oblique insertion proximally 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the ulnar artery.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the ulnar artery).

TCM functions

Benefits the shoulder and arm, improves vision.

Indications

Shoulder and arm pain, blurred vision, backache.

Xi-cleft

Clinical notes

As the Xi-cleft point of the Small Intestine meridian, SI6 is primarily used for acute conditions and pain along the meridian, particularly in the shoulder, arm, and wrist. Its name, "Support the Aged," reflects its strong empirical use for age-related vision problems, especially blurring and dimness, and for stiffness and pain in the neck and shoulder. It is also effective for lumbar sprain and acute back pain. A classic pairing is with BL1 for eye disorders.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI6 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI6 located?

SI6 (Yǎnglǎo) is located on the dorsal aspect of the forearm, in the cleft between the ulna and the radius, 1 cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease. To locate, place the palm on the chest, then find the point in the bony cleft on the ulnar side.

What is SI6 used for?

SI6 benefits the shoulder and arm, improves vision. Common clinical indications include shoulder and arm pain, blurred vision, backache.

How is SI6 needled?

Oblique insertion proximally 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the ulnar artery. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the ulnar artery).

Which meridian is SI6 on?

SI6 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.