SI6 (Yanglao / Nourishing the Aged) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
SI6 Yanglao is a xi-cleft point of the Small Intestine channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | SI6 — Yanglao (Nourishing the Aged) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Small Intestine — Hand Taiyang |
| Classification | Xi-Cleft |
| Region | Posteromedial distal forearm |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | On the dorsal little-finger side of the distal forearm, in the depression radial to the ulnar head, 1 B-cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease. |
Location of SI6 Yanglao
On the dorsal little-finger side of the distal forearm, in the depression radial to the ulnar head, 1 B-cun proximal to the dorsal wrist crease.
Landmark sequence
- Identify the head of the ulna with the palm facing down.
- Keep light contact with the bony prominence.
- Turn the palm towards the chest to reveal the radial-side depression.
- Confirm the point approximately one proportional unit proximal to the dorsal wrist crease.
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
SI6 is radial to the ulnar head, not a thumb-side radial wrist point. It differs from SI5 at the dorsal wrist near the ulnar styloid.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Benefits the shoulder and arm
- Relaxes the sinews and activates the channel
- Benefits the eyes in traditional theory
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for acute channel discomfort of the wrist, shoulder or arm and for selected eye presentations. The historical name does not mean that the point is restricted to older patients.
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 SI3, LI10. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
Assess the distal radioulnar region and extensor carpi ulnaris tendon; local sensory branches and previous injuries may affect safe localisation.
- 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
Sudden visual loss, a curtain across the vision, or a painful red eye requires urgent eye assessment. Acute weakness or major upper-limb trauma needs medical assessment.
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 SI6. 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 SI6); 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.
