Tianchuang Point (SI-16 / Heavenly Window, also known as Chuanglong)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Tianchuang (SI-16 / Heavenly Window). Learn its benefits for sore throat, sudden loss of voice, and stiff painful neck – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Sore throat, sudden loss of voice (aphonia), and stiff painful neck.
Precise Location
On the neck, level with the Adam's apple, at the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Location Method
Sit upright or recline with the head slightly raised. At the level of the Adam's apple, on the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle – firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Tianchuang with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat stiff painful neck. Therapeutic actions: Clears heat and benefits the throat, restores the voice and opens the orifices, relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals.
Compatibility
Stiff painful neck: Combine with Lieque (LU-7).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Hand Taiyang Small Intestine Meridian. It clears heat and benefits the throat, restores the voice and opens the orifices, relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals. It is a commonly used point for treating throat and neck disorders. First documented in Lingshu · Benshu. "Tian" means upper or heavenly; "Chuang" means window or opening. Located on the neck, this point serves as the window for meridian qi to open and close – hence the name Tianchuang (Heavenly Window). It is also known as "Chuanglong."
