Some tools are made for everyone; others exist for a very specific purpose. Think of the difference between a Swiss Army knife and a sushikiri, the knife your chef uses to slice sushi rolls. Both have value, but the latter is built for someone with a particular need or interest. In the world of acupuncture, Elbow Crevice (“Zhou Liao,” LI12) fits the second category. This acupoint doesn’t promise to solve everything, but if you’re dealing with elbow issues, it’s exactly what you’re looking for.
Classic Role
Zhou Liao was first documented in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing” (“The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion”). This acupoint stands out from other points on the Large Intestine meridian, which usually have multiple roles in the body. Zhou Liao is distinct for its singular and specialized function: relaxing the tendons around the elbow.Its anatomical position explains this focused action. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupoints most strongly influence their local area. Thus, Zhou Liao is the go-to choice for conditions such as tennis elbow, where pain is concentrated on the outside of the elbow from repetitive strain.
