TH14 Jianliao Dog Acupuncture Point
Jiān Liáo 肩髎Professional veterinary acupuncture overview of TH14 Jianliao in dogs, including anatomical location, shoulder joint pain and upper limb paralysis applications, clinical pairings, and safety notes.
| Chinese Name | 肩髎 |
| Pinyin | Jiān Liáo |
| Meridian | Triple Heater Meridian (TH) |
| Anatomical Location | Caudal and distal to the acromion on the caudal margin of the acromial head of the deltoideus muscle ("LI leads and TH trails"), in the depression posterior and inferior to the acromion when the arm is abducted. |
| Main Indications | Shoulder joint pain, upper limb paralysis, shoulder pain, forelimb pain, shoulder stiffness, pain in the shoulder and forelimb, upper limb motor dysfunction, elbow pain, arm numbness, inability to raise the arm. |
| Classical Function | TH point for shoulder and forelimb disorders. |
| Meridian Color | Triple Heater Meridian | Fire (Ministerial Fire) | Red |
Clinical Overview
In veterinary acupuncture practice, TH14 is an important point for treating shoulder and forelimb pain, upper limb motor dysfunction, and shoulder joint disorders.
TCVM practitioners often include TH14 in protocols aimed at relieving shoulder pain, activating the meridian, promoting mobility, and supporting upper limb function.
Veterinary Disclaimer
This educational content is not intended to replace professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Acupuncture and electroacupuncture should only be performed by a licensed veterinarian or certified veterinary acupuncturist.
Key Shoulder & Forelimb Point
TH14 is a key point for shoulder and forelimb pain, often paired with LI-15 (Jianyu) for shoulder disorders. It is commonly used in veterinary acupuncture for shoulder OA, rotator cuff injuries, and forelimb lameness. The point sits on the caudal margin of the deltoideus muscle, making it highly effective for shoulder joint and muscle-related pain.
TH14 Canine Acupuncture Point Placeholder
Use this area for the canine TH14 map or your future TCVM illustration.
Pinpoint Location
Anatomical Landmark
TH14 is located caudal and distal to the acromion on the caudal margin of the acromial head of the deltoideus muscle. In dogs, palpate the shoulder area, find the acromion (the prominent bone at the top of the shoulder), and locate the depression just posterior and inferior to it on the back edge of the deltoideus muscle. Remember: "LI leads and TH trails" — LI-15 is anterior to the acromion, while TH14 is posterior.
Primary Clinical Indications
- Shoulder joint pain: A classic point for shoulder pain, shoulder OA, rotator cuff injuries, and shoulder stiffness.
- Upper limb paralysis: Frequently used for upper limb motor dysfunction, forelimb lameness, and inability to raise the arm.
- Forelimb pain: Key point for forelimb pain, elbow pain, and arm numbness.
- Shoulder muscle pain: Commonly included for deltoideus muscle pain and shoulder muscle-related discomfort.
Recommended Point Pairings
In clinical veterinary acupuncture, TH14 is often paired with other shoulder, forelimb, and pain-relief points depending on presentation.
Frequently paired with LI-15 (Jianyu) for shoulder disorders, shoulder OA, and rotator cuff injuries. This is the classic "LI leads and TH trails" pairing for shoulder pain.
Often combined with SI-9 and BL-11 for shoulder and elbow pain, with EA (electroacupuncture) from LI-15 to SI-9 or BL-11 bilateral.
May be integrated with LI-10, LI-11, and ST36 for upper limb motor dysfunction, forelimb paralysis, and arm numbness.
Modern Veterinary Interpretation
From a modern veterinary rehabilitation perspective, TH14 is positioned on the caudal margin of the deltoideus muscle and is highly effective for shoulder OA, rotator cuff injuries, and forelimb lameness.
Integrative veterinarians may include this point within broader shoulder, forelimb, and upper limb support plans involving acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and medical management.
Safety & Needling Notes
Professional Veterinary Use
Because TH14 lies on the caudal margin of the deltoideus muscle, needling depth and angle should only be handled by trained veterinary professionals. Recommended technique: needle perpendicularly 0.7–1.0 cun.
Gentle Acupressure Guidance
Pet owners exploring supportive acupressure can use gentle, firm pressure on the posterior-inferior aspect of the shoulder (back edge of the deltoideus muscle) for 1–2 minutes per side. Avoid aggressive pressure if the dog shows discomfort or pulls away.
Editorial & Veterinary Review
This educational resource was prepared by the PetAcu editorial team using veterinary acupuncture references, TCVM educational materials, canine rehabilitation resources, and integrative veterinary literature.
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