TB13 Nàohuì means 'Upper Arm Meeting'

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

TB13 (Nǎohuì, “Nàohuì means 'Upper Arm Meeting'”) is an acupuncture point on the Triple Burner Meridian. It is located on the posterior border of the deltoid muscle, approximately 3 cun inferior to the acromion, in a palpable depression. It activates the channel and alleviates pain, resolves phlegm and dissipates nodules, clears heat.

Location

On the posterior border of the deltoid muscle, approximately 3 cun inferior to the acromion, in a palpable depression.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.7-1.5 cun.

TCM functions

Activates the channel and alleviates pain, resolves phlegm and dissipates nodules, clears heat..

Indications

Arm pain, soreness and weakness, inability to lift the arm, chills and fever, shoulder swelling that refers to the scapula, goiter, qi lumps on the neck..

Clinical notes

Nàohuì is a key local point for treating disorders of the shoulder and upper arm, particularly pain, weakness, and restricted movement. Its connection to the Yang Wei Mai and its classical indication for goiter and neck lumps also make it useful for resolving phlegm and nodules in the neck and shoulder region. It is often combined with other local and distal points on the San Jiao and Large Intestine channels for frozen shoulder and rotator cuff issues.

On the Triple Burner channel

TB13 is one of 23 points on the Triple Burner Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is TB13 located?

TB13 (Nǎohuì) is located on the posterior border of the deltoid muscle, approximately 3 cun inferior to the acromion, in a palpable depression.

What is TB13 used for?

TB13 activates the channel and alleviates pain, resolves phlegm and dissipates nodules, clears heat. Common clinical indications include arm pain, soreness and weakness, inability to lift the arm, chills and fever, shoulder swelling that refers to the scapula, goiter, qi lumps on the neck.

How is TB13 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.7-1.5 cun.

Which meridian is TB13 on?

TB13 is a point on the Triple Burner Meridian (Sān Jiāo).

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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.