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GV-11 Shendao (神道) — Spirit Path
Depth
00.5–1 cun3.0
Oblique insertion
Precautions
Deep insertion may reach the spinal canal.
Location (classical)
On the back, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5). At the same level as BL-15 (Heart Shu).
How to find it (practical)
In prone decubitus or seated with the back flexed, locate the point in the depression between the spinous processes of the fifth and sixth thoracic vertebrae.
Anatomy
Supraspinous and interspinous ligaments.
Needling
Oblique insertion directed superiorly, 0.5–1.0 cun.
Etymology
Shen (神), the mind of the Xin (Heart); Dao (道), path. The Xin (Heart) houses the mind, and the point is located lateral to the Xin Shu (BL-15), like a path of the mind.
CLASSICAL SOURCEJia Yi Jing
Clinical Relations
Adjacent Points on the Meridian