Naohui Point (TE-13 / Upper Arm Meeting, also known as Naoliao)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Naohui (TE-13 / Upper Arm Meeting). Learn its benefits for shoulder-arm pain, goiter, and scrofula – the meeting point of Sanjiao and Yang Wei – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Scapular swelling and pain, shoulder and arm pain, goiter, scrofula (cervical lymphadenopathy), and elbow-arm contracture with pain.
Precise Location
In the posterior arm region, 3 cun below the acromial angle, at the posteroinferior border of the deltoid muscle.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. Measure 3 cun (approximately 4 finger-widths) downward from the acromial angle (lateral end of the acromion) – the point is in the depression at the posteroinferior border of the deltoid muscle, where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Press and knead Naohui with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat shoulder and arm pain. Therapeutic actions: Relaxs the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, dispels wind and disperses nodules, and regulates qi and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Elbow-arm contracture with pain: Combine with Zhouliao (LI-12) and Waiguan (TE-5). Shoulder-arm pain and scapular swelling and pain: Combine with Jianyu (LI-15), Jianliao (TE-14), and Binao (LI-14). Goiter and scrofula: Combine with Tiantu (RN-22), Futu (LI-18), and Hegu (LI-4).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian and is the meeting point of the Sanjiao Meridian and the Yang Wei Vessel. It relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, dispels wind and disperses nodules, and regulates qi and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating shoulder-arm and neck disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Nao" refers to the upper arm and shoulder region; "Hui" means meeting. Located on the shoulder-arm region, this point is where the Sanjiao Meridian and the Yang Wei Vessel meet – hence the name Naohui (Upper Arm Meeting). It is also known as "Naoliao."
