Zhejin Point (GB-23 / Turning Sinew)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Zhejin (GB-23 / Turning Sinew). Learn its benefits for chest pain, cough, wheezing, and acid regurgitation – the meeting point of Gallbladder and Yin Wei – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Chest and hypochondriac pain, cough, wheezing, vomiting, acid regurgitation, chest fullness, and hypochondriac distension with pain.
Precise Location
In the lateral thoracic region, in the 4th intercostal space, 1 cun anterior to the mid-axillary line.
Location Method
Sit upright with the arm raised. First locate Yuanye (GB-22, in the 4th intercostal space on the mid-axillary line), then measure 1 finger-width (approximately 1 cun) anterior and slightly inferior – 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 Zhejin with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat chest fullness with hypochondriac pain, cough, and wheezing. Therapeutic actions: Soothes the chest and regulates qi, descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting, stops cough and relieves wheezing, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Chest and hypochondriac pain: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34) and Zhigou (TE-6). Cough and wheezing: Combine with Feishu (BL-13), Tiantu (RN-22), and Tanzhong (RN-17). Vomiting and acid regurgitation: Combine with Neiguan (PC-6), Zhongwan (RN-12), and Zusanli (ST-36). Chest fullness: Combine with Tanzhong (RN-17) and Neiguan (PC-6).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian and is the meeting point of the Gallbladder Meridian and the Yin Wei Vessel. It soothes the chest and regulates qi, descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting, stops cough and relieves wheezing, and unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain. It is a commonly used key point for treating chest, hypochondriac, and digestive system disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Zhe" refers to a cart rut, meaning to turn or pivot; "Jin" refers to sinews. Located on the chest and hypochondrium, this point is where Gallbladder Meridian qi pivots and regulates sinews – hence the name Zhejin (Turning Sinew).
