Arm Three Miles
手三里 Shǒu Sān Lǐ · LI-10
About LI-10 Arm Three Miles
LI-10 Shousanli is the upper body counterpart to the legendary ST-36 Zusanli (Leg Three Miles), and its name directly references this relationship. Just as Zusanli is said to give a weary traveler the strength to walk three more miles, Shousanli restores vitality and endurance to the arm. The parallel naming was deliberate in classical literature -- both points are qi tonics for their respective limbs, and both sit on yangming (Bright Yang) meridians that are rich in qi and blood.
As a local point on the Large Intestine meridian, Shousanli is highly effective for treating pain, weakness, and stiffness in the forearm, elbow, and upper arm. It is frequently used for repetitive strain conditions, tennis elbow (in combination with LI-11), and general arm fatigue. The muscle belly at this location is substantial, meaning the point can receive firm pressure comfortably.
Beyond its local musculoskeletal action, Shousanli shares the yangming channel's influence on the digestive system. It can harmonize the Stomach and Intestines, helping to resolve abdominal distension, irregular bowels, and poor appetite. This dual local-distal action is characteristic of yangming points and makes Shousanli a practical, accessible point for daily self-care.
How to Find This Point
Bend your elbow to 90 degrees. Find LI-11 at the end of the elbow crease on the outer side. Measure two thumb-widths down toward the hand along the top of the forearm. The point is in the muscular area on the outer forearm.
Technique
Press firmly with the thumb into the muscle belly. Sustained pressure or deep circular kneading both work well. The point may feel quite sore when the arm is fatigued.
Pressure & Duration
Moderate to firm pressure for 1-2 minutes per side.
Benefits
Regulates qi flow in the arm and intestines, tonifies qi, harmonizes the Stomach and Intestines, relieves arm pain and weakness
Indications
Arm pain, elbow stiffness, shoulder ache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, toothache, facial swelling, general fatigue, weakness in gripping
TCM Actions
Regulates qi and blood in the upper limb, tonifies qi, harmonizes the intestines, activates the channel and alleviates pain
Self-Care Use
Press this point when your arms feel heavy, weak, or fatigued -- it is the arm equivalent of the famous leg point ST-36 Zusanli. Also useful for forearm tension from computer work or repetitive tasks. Knead firmly into the outer forearm muscle for 1-2 minutes per side.
Contraindications & Cautions
No major contraindications. Use moderate pressure if there is acute inflammation of the forearm muscles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the LI-10 Arm Three Miles acupressure point located?
LI-10 Arm Three Miles (Shǒu Sān Lǐ) is located at: On the dorsal radial aspect of the forearm, on the line connecting LI-5 (Yangxi) and LI-11 (Quchi), 2 cun distal to LI-11, in the extensor carpi radialis longus muscle. Bend your elbow to 90 degrees. Find LI-11 at the end of the elbow crease on the outer side. Measure two thumb-widths down toward the hand along the top of the forearm. The point is in the muscular are
How long should I press LI-10 Arm Three Miles?
Apply moderate to firm pressure to LI-10 for 1-2 minutes per side. Press firmly with the thumb into the muscle belly. Sustained pressure or deep circular kneading both work well. The point may feel quite sore when the arm is fatigued.
What are the benefits of stimulating LI-10 Arm Three Miles?
Regulates qi flow in the arm and intestines, tonifies qi, harmonizes the Stomach and Intestines, relieves arm pain and weakness
Is it safe to do acupressure on LI-10 at home?
Press this point when your arms feel heavy, weak, or fatigued -- it is the arm equivalent of the famous leg point ST-36 Zusanli. Also useful for forearm tension from computer work or repetitive tasks. Cautions: No major contraindications. Use moderate pressure if there is acute inflammation of the forearm muscles.
Which meridian does LI-10 belong to?
LI-10 Arm Three Miles belongs to the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian, which is associated with the Metal element. Its TCM actions include: Regulates qi and blood in the upper limb, tonifies qi, harmonizes the intestines, activates the channel and alleviates pain