As temperatures rise, many rely on air conditioning to stay comfortable. But have you ever noticed an odd, nagging pain or numbness in your shoulders after spending hours under a cool breeze? Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has an explanation—pathogenic wind sneaking into the body’s system through prolonged exposure to cold air.
You don’t have to be an expert in TCM to benefit from its wisdom. Stimulating the Upper Arm Convergence (Nao Hui, TE13) acupoint may be just what you need to ease discomfort and restore a healthy flow of energy.
The Connection Between Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing
Nao Hui was first referenced in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing,” also known as “The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” an ancient Chinese text considered the oldest surviving writing on acupuncture and moxibustion.
Nao Hui is an important acupoint in TCM as it acts as a convergence point for the Triple Energizer meridian and the extraordinary vessel called Yang Wei Mai. To clarify, the Triple Energizer in TCM is categorized alongside hollow organs such as the gallbladder, stomach, and large intestine. Although the Triple Energizer is termed an organ, it does not have a physical form. Its primary function is to regulate the flow of fluids and energy throughout the body.
Extraordinary vessels are unique meridians (energy channels) that are not directly connected to specific organs but perform vital functions in the body, including the transport of specific types of energy. In the case of the Yang Wei Mai, it links the meridians that are responsible for transporting yang energy.
Due to its strategic location, Nao Hui is believed to play a role in the body’s defense against external pathogenic influences such as cold and wind. Additionally, TCM practitioners associate a healthy flow of yang energy with the ability to overcome procrastination and take decisive action.
From a TCM perspective, Nao Hui helps clear blocked meridians and ensure the smooth flow of yang energy throughout the body. This makes it particularly useful for addressing conditions linked to prolonged exposure to air conditioning, such as numbness, dull aches, and discomfort in the arms and shoulders.
Modern Medicine and Acupoint Therapy
Scientific studies suggest that manual stimulation and massage of acupoints can be highly effective in relieving pain and improving mobility. One study compared three treatments—electroacupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and acupoint massage—for patients with periarthritis of the shoulder, commonly known as “frozen shoulder.”
All groups experienced significant pain relief and increased mobility. However, the acupoint massage group demonstrated the best results, with a 61.5 percent effective and curative rate, outperforming electroacupuncture at 42.9 percent and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation at 44.4 percent. This suggests that targeted manual stimulation of acupoints like Nao Hui can be a useful tool for managing shoulder pain.
How to Locate and Activate Nao Hui
While classical acupuncture texts describe locating Nao Hui based on other acupoints, there’s an easier way to find it. Start by measuring four finger widths from the point where the back of your arm meets your torso. From there, move slightly upwards toward the back of the deltoid muscle. You’ll find a small depression that feels tender when pressed—this is Nao Hui.
How to Stimulate Nao Hui for Maximum Benefit
- Press firmly for three to five seconds, release for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage in circles using your thumb or index finger for one to three minutes per side.
- Use an herbal patch overnight for persistent pain relief.
- Advanced techniques like acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) can be applied by a trained TCM professional.
A Few Precautions
Scientific research supports the effectiveness of acupoint massage, but it is not advisable to stimulate the Nao Hui point if you have injuries in that area. When applying acupressure, start with mild pressure and gradually increase it until you find a balance between stimulation and discomfort.
Soreness or tenderness may indicate a blocked meridian, signaling that the point requires additional attention. If you are using herbal patches, choose products free from harsh artificial ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.
A Small Act of Self-Care With Big Benefits
Stimulating Nao Hui helps promote healthy circulation of yang energy, benefiting both the Triple Energizer meridian and the entire body. Try incorporating this simple practice into your self-care routine and observe the results. You may find that in addition to your shoulder feeling better, you also experience increased energy and motivation throughout the day.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 14 Apr 2025
