HT5 (Tongli / Inner Communication) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
HT5 Tongli is a luo-connecting point of the Heart channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | HT5 — Tongli (Inner Communication) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Heart — Hand Shaoyin |
| Classification | Luo-Connecting |
| Region | Anteromedial forearm |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | On the palm-facing little-finger side of the forearm, immediately radial to the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon, 1 B-cun proximal to the palmar wrist crease. |
Location of HT5 Tongli
On the palm-facing little-finger side of the forearm, immediately radial to the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon, 1 B-cun proximal to the palmar wrist crease.
Landmark sequence
- Support the forearm palm upwards.
- Identify the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon near the pisiform.
- Measure one proportional unit from the palmar wrist crease.
- Locate the point on the radial side of the tendon.
Where a B-cun measurement is given, use the patient’s proportional body measurement. It is not a fixed centimetre distance or a universal number of the practitioner’s finger breadths. Confirm the relevant landmarks by palpation before deciding on a technique.
Distinguishing nearby points
HT5 is 1 B-cun from the wrist crease. HT6 is 0.5 B-cun and HT4 is 1.5 B-cun, on the same tendon-side line.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Regulates Heart Qi
- Calms the Shen
- Benefits the tongue and activates the channel
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for palpitations or emotional agitation within an appropriate Heart pattern, and for selected speech or tongue presentations. These uses do not replace cardiac or neurological diagnosis.
These descriptions express traditional theory. They are not claims that this individual point has been proven to prevent or cure a medical condition. A symptom or channel label alone is insufficient to select a treatment.
Planning a point combination
Consider the treatment principle, local versus distal selection and the patient’s complete presentation. Related Project Lotus guides for comparison include HT7, SI4. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
The ulnar artery and nerve are relevant in this region. Locate the tendon accurately and avoid direct vessel or nerve injury.
- Inspect the skin and assess local tissue, circulation and sensation. Do not needle through infected, ulcerated, inflamed or otherwise unsuitable tissue.
- Review relevant surgery, injuries, implants, bleeding risk, medication, pregnancy and previous adverse reactions.
- Use sterile single-use needles, appropriate infection control and safe sharps disposal. Obtain informed consent and document the treatment.
- Choose angle, depth and stimulation from anatomical assessment and accredited training. This guide gives no universal insertion depth. Stop and reassess unexpected sharp pain, neurological symptoms or a concerning response.
When medical assessment takes priority
Palpitations with chest pain, fainting or breathlessness require urgent assessment. Sudden speech difficulty, facial droop or arm weakness is a stroke emergency.
Moxibustion
Moxa is not an automatic addition. Consider the traditional pattern, local anatomy and the practitioner’s training. Where heat is appropriate, assess sensation, skin condition, ventilation and the patient’s ability to report discomfort; supervise continuously and prevent burns.
Research note
Evidence concerning an acupuncture treatment or a multi-point protocol cannot be assigned automatically to this point alone. This guide does not claim an independently established clinical effect for HT5. Traditional functions and clinical evidence should be discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is this point bilateral?
Yes. The surface landmarks apply on both sides. Treatment laterality depends on assessment and the chosen clinical strategy.
Can the image replace palpation?
No. The image shows the landmark relationship schematically. Body proportions, tendon visibility and tissue depth vary, so trained examination remains essential.
Is this a self-needling guide?
No. It is an educational reference for qualified practitioners and does not replace professional training or medical assessment.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Browse our Acupuncture Point Guides and professional acupuncture needles.
Professional note: Educational material for qualified acupuncture practitioners. Individual assessment, consent, safe technique and appropriate referral remain the practitioner’s responsibility.
References: WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations, updated reprint 2009 (entry HT5); CEIMEC point atlas (cross-check; WHO takes precedence where descriptions differ); Joel Penner, American Dragon: traditional point reference; NCCIH: acupuncture evidence and safety. Checked 5 October 2026.
