TB3 Central Islet

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

TB3 (Zhōngzhǔ, “Central Islet”) is the Shu-Stream point of the Triple Burner Meridian. TB3 is located on the dorsum of the hand, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint between the ring and little fingers. It clears heat, benefits the head and ears, activates the channel and alleviates pain.

Location

TB3 is located on the dorsum of the hand, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint between the ring and little fingers.

Needling

Insert perpendicularly 0.3-0.8 cun.

TCM functions

Clears heat, benefits the head and ears, activates the channel and alleviates pain.

Indications

Headache, redness of eyes, deafness, tinnitus, sore throat, febrile diseases, pain in the elbow and arm.

Shu-Stream

Clinical notes

As a Shu-Stream point, TB3 is crucial for treating heaviness and pain in the joints, making it a primary point for finger and wrist pain, especially due to wind-damp obstruction. It also effectively clears heat from the San Jiao channel, benefiting the head, eyes, and ears, and is a classic point for tinnitus and deafness. It is often paired with SI3 for neck stiffness and shoulder pain.

On the Triple Burner channel

TB3 is one of 23 points on the Triple Burner Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is TB3 located?

TB3 is located on the dorsum of the hand, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint between the ring and little fingers.

What is TB3 used for?

TB3 clears heat, benefits the head and ears, activates the channel and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include headache, redness of eyes, deafness, tinnitus, sore throat, febrile diseases, pain in the elbow and arm.

How is TB3 needled?

Insert perpendicularly 0.3-0.8 cun.

Which meridian is TB3 on?

TB3 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.