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GB21 (Jianjing) – Moxibustion Acupoint Reference
Chinese Name: Jianjing (肩井)
Meridian: Gallbladder (Shaoyang)
Location: Midpoint between GV14 and the tip of the acromion, on the trapezius muscle
Moxa Duration: 3-5 min | Distance: 2-3 cm
Evidence Level: Moderate
Location
GB21 is located at the highest point of the trapezius muscle, midway between GV14 (Dazhui) and the lateral tip of the acromion.
Clinical Indications for Moxibustion
- Shoulder and neck tension: Tight trapezius, stiff neck, frozen shoulder
- Headache: Tension headaches with neck involvement
- Breast health: Lactation support, breast engorgement (traditional)
- Stress and anxiety: Releases muscular tension associated with stress
Evidence Summary
A 2020 RCT found GB21 moxibustion combined with stretching reduced trapezius muscle tension by 38% measured by surface EMG. Patients with chronic tension headaches reported a 52% reduction in headache frequency after 8 weeks of twice-weekly moxibustion at GB21 and GB20.
Related Articles
References
- Wang R, et al. GB21 moxibustion for trapezius muscle tension: surface EMG study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2020;43(4):325-333. PubMed
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