Your shoulders bear a fair share of activity. They are crucial to almost every movement you make—whether hiking with a heavy backpack, working at your desk, lifting weights, practicing yoga, or playing golf. Good shoulder mobility is vital for many activities, from hobbies to daily chores and activities. Shoulder Well (Jian Jing, GB21) is an acupoint that serves as a go-to remedy for various shoulder issues.
Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science
Jian Jing has been recognized for its therapeutic benefits since it was mentioned in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing,” one of the earliest acupuncture classics. Its specific location contributes to its effectiveness in relieving shoulder pain and improving mobility. However, the healing powers of Jian Jing extend beyond musculoskeletal issues. It is believed to influence the circulation of energy within the internal organs, as it is classified as a shu-acupoint. These acupoints are located on the back and play a significant role in affecting nearby internal organs.
Historically, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners have used Jian Jing to support lactation and assist with difficult labor. It is important to note that pregnant women should avoid using this acupoint to protect their pregnancy.
Contemporary research validates Jian Jing’s benefits for pain relief and gallbladder function while exploring the mechanisms behind its effectiveness. A 2021 study investigated the effects of electronic wrist-ankle acupuncture on 50 men suffering from shoulder muscle pain. The participants were divided into a treatment group and a placebo group.
Those who underwent acupuncture reported a significant reduction in pain, while the placebo group showed little to no improvement. Brain scans revealed that the treatment altered activity in important brain regions involved in pain processing, suggesting that acupuncture affects not only physical pain but also neurological responses.
A 2024 study investigated how traditional acupuncture and laser acupuncture compare in treating chronic non-specific neck pain. Eighty-four participants were divided into three groups—one received traditional needle acupuncture, another received laser acupuncture, and the third received a placebo laser treatment.
Both groups that received different types of acupuncture reported significantly reduced pain immediately after treatment compared to the placebo, with no notable differences in effectiveness between the two methods. These findings reinforce that Jian Jing can effectively relieve pain, whether stimulated through traditional or modern techniques.
Recent research has established a link between the Jian Jing acupuncture point and the function of internal organs. In a 2012 study involving sixty patients with long-term gallbladder inflammation, acupuncture treatment provided significantly better pain relief. Specifically, 90 percent of patients reported improvement, compared to only 56.67 percent in the group that did not receive acupuncture at the Jian Jing point. Additionally, ultrasound imaging revealed that acupuncture at Jian Jing helped to regulate gallbladder volume, while the non-acupoint treatment showed no significant effects. This supports the idea that Jian Jing plays a crucial role in enhancing both pain relief and gallbladder function.
How to Locate and Stimulate Jian Jing
In classical texts, this acupoint is described as being located midway between the bony prominence at the base of your neck (which protrudes when you bend your head forward) and the highest point of your shoulder. A simpler way to find it is to cross your arms, placing your hands on opposite shoulders. When you press your thumbs against your neck, your middle fingers will naturally land on Jian Jing. It should feel sore or numb when pressed.
Once you locate Jian Jing, there are several ways to stimulate it for pain relief and muscle relaxation:
- Apply firm pressure for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage in circular motions using your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes per side.
- Use an herbal patch overnight for added therapeutic benefits. Opt for ones free from aggressive artificial ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Advanced techniques like acupuncture or moxibustion performed by a trained TCM professional can provide more profound relief.
Important Precautions
While Jian Jing is a widely used acupoint, pregnant women should avoid it, as it can expedite labor. Additionally, those with injuries in the shoulder region should exercise caution.
A Moment of Holistic Self-Care
We carry a lot on our shoulders, both physically and metaphorically. Whether you’re unwinding after a long hike, recovering from an intense workout, or simply easing the strain of a busy workday, stimulating Jian Jing can effectively support your well-being. A few moments of self-care and mindful reconnection with your body can go a long way in maintaining balance and comfort in your daily life.
The article has been medically checked and reviewed by Dr. Shihhsiang Hung.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 13 Mar 2025
