LI6 (Pianli / Veering Passage) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
LI6 Pianli is a luo-connecting point of the Large Intestine channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | LI6 — Pianli (Veering Passage) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Large Intestine — Hand Yangming |
| Classification | Luo-Connecting |
| Region | Posterolateral forearm |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | On the LI5–LI11 line on the back-and-thumb-side forearm, 3 B-cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease. |
Location of LI6 Pianli
On the LI5–LI11 line on the back-and-thumb-side forearm, 3 B-cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease.
Landmark sequence
- Support the forearm with its radial side accessible.
- Locate LI5 and LI11.
- Measure three of the twelve proportional units upwards from LI5.
- Confirm the posterolateral forearm position and palpate the tissues.
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
LI6 is 3 B-cun from the dorsal wrist crease. LI7 is 5 B-cun from that crease; LI10 is measured downwards from the elbow.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Expels Wind and clears Heat
- Regulates the water passages in traditional theory
- Activates the channel
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for forearm discomfort and selected facial or hand swelling patterns. Its Luo-Connecting role provides a theoretical connection between the Large Intestine and Lung channels.
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 LU9, LI11. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
Review radial-side tendons, superficial veins and sensory nerve branches. Swelling or altered sensation can obscure landmarks and should be assessed before local needling.
- 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
Rapid facial swelling involving the lips or tongue, or swelling with breathing difficulty, is an emergency. Unexplained persistent oedema needs medical investigation.
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 LI6. 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 LI6); 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.
