Back Ravine
后溪 Hòu Xī · SI-3
About SI-3 Back Ravine
SI-3 Houxi is a point of remarkable depth for its small size, serving as both the shu-stream point of the Small Intestine meridian and the confluent point of the Governing Vessel (Du Mai). The Du Mai runs up the entire length of the spine and over the crown of the head to the upper lip, governing all the yang meridians of the body. SI-3's connection to this master channel gives it powerful influence over the entire posterior body -- spine, occiput, neck, and back.
The clinical implication is that pressing a small point on the edge of the hand can treat pain and stiffness anywhere along the spine. This is particularly effective for acute conditions: the neck that seizes upon waking, the upper back that tightens after hours of desk work, the occipital headache that grips the base of the skull. SI-3 is one of the points most frequently used in emergency acupuncture for acute spinal pain, and its accessibility makes it equally valuable for self-care.
The name 'Back Ravine' refers to the deep cleft that forms on the ulnar border of the hand when a fist is made. Just as a ravine channels water through mountains, this point channels qi through the Du Mai and the taiyang (greater yang) regions of the body. Its Wood element designation on a Fire meridian gives it the ability to spread and mobilize stagnant qi, breaking through the constriction that produces pain and rigidity in the neck and spine.
How to Find This Point
Make a loose fist. On the outer edge of the hand (little finger side), find the crease that forms at the base of the little finger when you curl it. The point is at the end of that crease, in the depression where the bone of the little finger meets the hand, at the skin color transition.
Technique
Press firmly with the opposite thumb into the depression on the edge of the hand. Sustained deep pressure or circular kneading. Making a loose fist while pressing deepens the point's accessibility.
Pressure & Duration
Firm pressure for 1-2 minutes per side.
Benefits
Benefits the neck and back, opens the Governing Vessel, clears the mind, benefits the eyes and ears, expels wind, relaxes the sinews
Indications
Stiff neck, occipital headache, upper back pain, eye redness, tinnitus, deafness, hand and finger pain, epilepsy, night sweats, malaria
TCM Actions
Benefits the occiput and neck, activates the channel, clears wind-heat, calms the spirit, opens the Governing Vessel (Du Mai), shu-stream point of the Small Intestine meridian, confluent point of the Du Mai
Self-Care Use
Excellent for stiff neck and upper back tension. Press firmly on the outer edge of the hand near the base of the little finger. Especially useful when you wake up with a cricked neck or after long hours at a desk. Press one side while slowly turning the head left and right to enhance the effect. Also helpful for occipital headaches (pain at the base of the skull).
Contraindications & Cautions
No major contraindications for acupressure. Avoid very forceful pressure in individuals with fifth metacarpal fracture or joint disease.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the SI-3 Back Ravine acupressure point located?
SI-3 Back Ravine (Hòu Xī) is located at: On the ulnar aspect of the hand, in the depression proximal to the head of the fifth metacarpal bone, at the junction of the red and white skin. Make a loose fist. On the outer edge of the hand (little finger side), find the crease that forms at the base of the little finger when you curl it. The point is at the end of that crease, in the depr
How long should I press SI-3 Back Ravine?
Apply firm pressure to SI-3 for 1-2 minutes per side. Press firmly with the opposite thumb into the depression on the edge of the hand. Sustained deep pressure or circular kneading. Making a loose fist while pressing deepens the point's accessibility.
What are the benefits of stimulating SI-3 Back Ravine?
Benefits the neck and back, opens the Governing Vessel, clears the mind, benefits the eyes and ears, expels wind, relaxes the sinews
Is it safe to do acupressure on SI-3 at home?
Excellent for stiff neck and upper back tension. Press firmly on the outer edge of the hand near the base of the little finger. Especially useful when you wake up with a cricked neck or after long hou Cautions: No major contraindications for acupressure. Avoid very forceful pressure in individuals with fifth metacarpal fracture or joint disease.
Which meridian does SI-3 belong to?
SI-3 Back Ravine belongs to the Hand Taiyang Small Intestine Meridian, which is associated with the Wood (shu-stream point of Fire meridian) element. Its TCM actions include: Benefits the occiput and neck, activates the channel, clears wind-heat, calms the spirit, opens the Governing Vessel (Du Mai), shu-stream point of the Small Intestine meridian, confluent point of the