Course:
This channel starts from the tip of the radial side of the index (Point Shangyang, LI1). It runs upwards along the radial side of the index and passes between the ossa metacarpalia I and 1I, goes into the depression between the tendons of m.extensor pollicis longus and brevis, then along the antero-lateral aspect of the forearm to the lateral side of the elbow (Point Quchi, LIll). Along the anterior border of the lateral side of the upper arm, it ascends to the highest point of the shoulder (Point Jianyu, LI15), and then goes along the anterior border of the acromion up to 7th cervical vertebra (Point Dazhui, DU14), from where it comes downwards into the supraclavicular fossa and communicates with the lung. Descending through the diaphragm, it enters its pertaining organ, the large intestine.
The branch channel from the supraclavicular fossa runs upwards to the neck, passes through the cheek, and enters into the lower teeth and gum. Then it curves round the lips and meets at Point Renzhong(DU26), or philtrum,thevertical groove on the mid-line of the upper lip. From there the channel ofthe left side turns right, while the right side channel turns left. They go upwards to both sides of the wings of the nose (Point Yingxiang, LI20) and connect with the Stomach Channel of Foot-Yangming.
Location:In the depression of the radial side ,proximal to the 2nd metacarpal bones,and on the radial side of the midpoint of the 2nd metacarpal bone.
Indications:Ophthalmalgia,toothache,sore-throat,inflammation of the fingers and the back of the hand.
Method: Puncture perpendicularly 0.5-0.8 inch. Moxibustion is applicable.
Regional anatomy
Vasculature: The dorsal venous network of the hand and the branch of the first dorsal metacarpal artery.
Innervation: The superficial ramus of the radial nerve.
