Zhoujian Point (EX-UE1 / Elbow Tip)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Zhoujian (EX-UE1 / Elbow Tip). Learn its benefits for scrofula, carbuncles, and swellings – the extraordinary point for dissipating nodules – plus moxibustion techniques and classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Dissipates nodules and transforms stasis, clears heat and removes toxins, reduces swelling and relieves pain, softens and disperses hard masses. Treats scrofula (cervical lymphadenopathy, lymph node enlargement), furuncles, carbuncles and swellings, goiter, scrofulous tuberculosis (cervical and axillary lymph node tuberculosis), and various suppurative infections.
Precise Location
On the posterior elbow, at the tip of the olecranon when the elbow is flexed.
Location Method
Flex the elbow to 90° – the point is at the highest point of the olecranon (elbow tip).
Massage Method
Press and knead with the thumb pad for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily. Clinical practice commonly uses moxibustion: direct cone moxibustion or mild-warm moxa stick for 5–10 cones or 10–15 minutes until local skin becomes flushed. Therapeutic actions: Dissipates nodules and transforms stasis, clears heat and removes toxins, reduces swelling and relieves pain, softens and disperses hard masses.
Compatibility
Scrofula: Combine with Jianjing (GB-21). Carbuncles and swellings: Combine with Hegu (LI-4), Quchi (LI-11), and Weizhong (BL-40). Scrofulous tuberculosis: Combine with Tianjing (TE-10), Yifeng (TE-17), and Jianjing (GB-21).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located at the tip of the olecranon on the posterior elbow. It dissipates nodules and transforms stasis, clears heat and removes toxins, reduces swelling and relieves pain, and softens and disperses hard masses. It is a commonly used key point for treating scrofula and external carbuncles and swellings. First documented in the Beiji Qianjin Yaofang (Emergency Thousand-Gold Formulas). "Zhou" refers to the elbow; "Jian" means tip. Located at the tip of the olecranon when the elbow is flexed – hence the name Zhoujian (Elbow Tip). Zhoujian is an experienced effective point for treating scrofula (cervical lymphadenopathy), especially effective for scrofula, carbuncles, and other external diseases. Moxibustion is the primary clinical application, often with direct cone moxibustion producing significant results.
Contraindications
Located on a bony prominence – needling should be superficial or oblique, generally 0.3–0.5 cun, avoiding deep insertion to prevent periosteal injury. Moxibustion is commonly used, especially cone moxibustion. Caution is needed to prevent burns. Use with caution in pregnant women.
