ST16 Yingchuang

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

ST16 (Yingchuang, “Yingchuang”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the chest, in the third intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 1.6 cun inferior to Wuyi (ST15). It unbinds the chest, descends rebellious Qi, alleviates cough and wheezing, clears heat and resolves swelling.

Location

On the chest, in the third intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 1.6 cun inferior to Wuyi (ST15).

Needling

Oblique or transverse insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, avoiding deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Unbinds the chest, descends rebellious Qi, alleviates cough and wheezing, clears heat and resolves swelling..

Indications

Chest fullness, shortness of breath, inability to lie down, lip swelling, intestinal rumbling with loose stools, mastitis with chills and fever, inability to rest peacefully, chest and flank abscess/swelling..

Clinical notes

Yingchuang is a primary local point for disorders of the chest, particularly those involving a sense of fullness, oppression, and difficulty breathing. Its name, 'Chest Window,' aptly describes its ability to open the chest and facilitate the descent of Lung Qi. It is also classically indicated for mastitis, where it helps to clear local heat and inflammation, especially when combined with symptoms of chills and fever.

On the Stomach channel

ST16 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

ST12ST13ST14ST15ST17ST18ST19ST20

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST16 located?

ST16 (Yingchuang) is located on the chest, in the third intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 1.6 cun inferior to Wuyi (ST15).

What is ST16 used for?

ST16 unbinds the chest, descends rebellious Qi, alleviates cough and wheezing, clears heat and resolves swelling. Common clinical indications include chest fullness, shortness of breath, inability to lie down, lip swelling, intestinal rumbling with loose stools, mastitis with chills and fever, inability to rest peacefully, chest and flank abscess/swelling.

How is ST16 needled?

Oblique or transverse insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, avoiding deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is ST16 on?

ST16 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.