ST11 Qi Abode, or Residence of Qi

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

ST11 (Qishe, “Qi Abode, or Residence of Qi”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the neck, in the depression between the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, directly superior to the medial end of the clavicle and lateral to the Ren Mai point Tiantu (CV22). It descends rebellious Lung and Stomach Qi, benefits the throat and neck, resolves masses.

Location

On the neck, in the depression between the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, directly superior to the medial end of the clavicle and lateral to the Ren Mai point Tiantu (CV22).

Needling

Perpendicular or slightly oblique-medial insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep insertion risks puncturing the subclavian vessels or the apex of the lung.

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TCM functions

Descends rebellious Lung and Stomach Qi, benefits the throat and neck, resolves masses..

Indications

Cough with rebellious upward-moving Qi, shoulder swelling preventing turning the head, sore throat, throat obstruction, difficulty swallowing, goiter, scrofula, hiccup, asthma, wheezing, shortness of breath, inability to lie down due to wheezing, fullness in the chest and hypochondrium..

Clinical notes

Qishe is a crucial local point for treating disorders of the throat and upper chest. Its name, 'Qi Abode,' highlights its role in regulating the flow of Qi in this region, making it effective for cough, wheezing, and asthma where Qi rebels upward. It is also a primary point for addressing physical obstructions in the neck, such as goiter and swollen glands, by moving Qi and resolving stagnation.

On the Stomach channel

ST11 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

ST7ST8ST9ST10ST12ST13ST14ST15

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST11 located?

ST11 (Qishe) is located on the neck, in the depression between the sternal and clavicular heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, directly superior to the medial end of the clavicle and lateral to the Ren Mai point Tiantu (CV22).

What is ST11 used for?

ST11 descends rebellious Lung and Stomach Qi, benefits the throat and neck, resolves masses. Common clinical indications include cough with rebellious upward-moving Qi, shoulder swelling preventing turning the head, sore throat, throat obstruction, difficulty swallowing, goiter, scrofula, hiccup, asthma, wheezing, shortness of breath, inability to lie down due to wheezing, fullness in the chest and hypochondrium.

How is ST11 needled?

Perpendicular or slightly oblique-medial insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep insertion risks puncturing the subclavian vessels or the apex of the lung. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall. The classics do not specify cautions for this point, but its proximity to the carotid artery, jugular vein, and apex of the lung demands careful needling.

Which meridian is ST11 on?

ST11 is a point on the Stomach Meridian (Zú Yángmíng Wèijīng).

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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.