Jianguyu (LI15) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

What is Jianu?

Jianu (LI15) is an acupoint on the Large Intestine meridian, located on the shoulder. In traditional Korean medicine, “jian” means shoulder and “u” means gathering, making it a key acupoint known for treating shoulder and arm conditions. It is very effective for resolving chronic shoulder pain in modern people.

How to Locate the Exact Position

Step 1: Raise both shoulders up to ear level.
Step 2: With shoulders raised, bend your arms at a 90-degree angle.
Step 3: A natural depression (fossa) appears in the anterior deltoid area of the shoulder.
Step 4: That depression is exactly Jianu. When pressed with a finger, you will feel pain or a slight tingling sensation.

Acupressure Method

Preparation: Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
Step 1: Find the Jianu acupoint with the thumb of your opposite hand.
Step 2: Press slowly for about 3-5 seconds while taking a deep breath in.
Step 3: Hold for 3-5 seconds, then slowly release pressure while exhaling.
Step 4: Repeat this 10-15 times.
Tip: Press the side with pain first, and then press the opposite side as well for better results.

Key Benefits

• Shoulder pain relief: Relaxes stiff and tight shoulder muscles, providing immediate pain relief.
• Improvement of arm pain and numbness: Effectively relieves arm pain, numbness, and paresthesia caused by nerve compression.
• Blood pressure regulation: Connected to the Large Intestine meridian, it helps stabilize blood pressure.
• Skin health improvement: Effective for improving skin conditions such as acne and hives by strengthening immunity and promoting skin metabolism.
• Stress relief: Relieves rigid shoulder muscles to calm both body and mind.

When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal time: Pressing 3 times a day—after waking in the morning, during lunch, and after work in the evening—is effective.
Recommended situations: You can see quick relief by pressing when shoulder stiffness is severe after prolonged computer work, when stressed, when experiencing pain from weather changes, or when blood pressure is elevated.

Precautions

Contraindications: Avoid when there is severe inflammation or fever. Avoid pressing the area if there are wounds or skin conditions present.
Pressure intensity: Do not press too hard to the point of pain. Ideal pressure is at the level of “slightly uncomfortable but pleasant.”
Time limit: Do not press for more than 5 minutes at a time.
Professional consultation: If pain persists or symptoms worsen, consult with a traditional Korean medicine doctor or physician.