The Crooked Pond pressure point (LI 11) is located on the Large Intestine meridian and is one of the most powerful and commonly used points in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Positioned at the lateral end of the elbow crease, this point is recognized for its ability to clear heat, reduce inflammation, and regulate the immune and digestive systems. It is frequently used to address musculoskeletal pain, immune response, and systemic imbalances.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | LI 11 – Crooked Pond |
| Body Area | Elbow |
| Exact Location | Outer end of elbow crease |
| Common Uses | Relieves arthritis, fever, constipation, immune-boosting |
| Stimulation Technique | Press into elbow joint with opposite thumb for 1 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid in cases of recent elbow surgery, infection, or acute skin trauma |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Crooked Pond pressure point is clinically applied for a variety of inflammatory, immune, and gastrointestinal conditions. Common indications include:
- Joint pain, particularly arthritis in the elbow, wrist, or shoulder
- Fever, or symptoms of external wind-heat invasion
- Digestive disturbances, especially constipation and bloating
- Immune deficiency or conditions involving systemic inflammation
- Dermatological disorders such as hives and eczema
Because of its anatomical and energetic placement, LI 11 plays a role in eliminating “heat” and supporting detoxification through both modern and traditional frameworks.
Location
LI 11 is located on the outer end of the elbow crease.
To locate:
- Bend the elbow to create a visible crease
- Follow the crease to its lateral end (thumb side)
- Press just outside the elbow joint in the shallow groove next to the biceps tendon
Often illustrated in acupressure and orthopedic charts, this point is both easy to find and palpate.
How to Stimulate It
To activate the Crooked Pond pressure point:
- Technique: Use the thumb of the opposite hand to press directly into the point
- Direction: Downward and slightly inward toward the joint
- Intensity: Apply firm pressure, without causing discomfort
- Duration: Hold for 1 minute, then release slowly
- Frequency: Use once or twice daily, especially during immune challenges or inflammatory flare-ups
- Body Position: Seated with the arm bent and supported on a table or thigh
This point can be stimulated alone or integrated into systemic immune and pain-relief protocols.
Benefits and Common Uses
LI 11 is traditionally and clinically used to:
- Reduce fever and clear systemic heat
- Relieve joint and muscle pain in the upper limb
- Promote bowel movement, particularly in heat-related constipation
- Support immune modulation, especially in autoimmune or allergic responses
- Treat skin conditions including rashes, itching, and hives
In TCM, it is said to clear heat, cool the blood, and disperse wind, making it one of the primary points for inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
LI 11 is located near the radial nerve and brachioradialis muscle. Stimulation of this area can:
- Enhance local circulation and reduce inflammation in the elbow and forearm
- Influence autonomic nervous system function, supporting immune responses and thermoregulation
- Stimulate the gastrointestinal system via its channel relationship with the large intestine
From a neurological standpoint, pressure here may activate central pathways associated with pain reduction and stress regulation.
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point has consistently helped reduce inflammatory discomfort, particularly in seasonal allergy flare-ups or post-viral fatigue. It provides a clear shift when used alongside immune-boosting points such as ST 36.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid use of LI 11 if:
- There is acute inflammation or infection at the elbow
- The individual is recovering from elbow surgery or trauma
- There are neurological deficits affecting the radial nerve in the area
Apply pressure mindfully, especially in elderly individuals or those with joint degeneration. For full guidelines, visit our acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
LI 11 is frequently paired with:
- LI 4 – Joining the Valley for detoxification and pain relief
- ST 36 – Three Mile Point to support immune and digestive function
- SP 10 – Sea of Blood for skin inflammation and blood cooling
Complementary techniques include:
- Moxibustion to disperse chronic damp-heat conditions
- Cupping or tapping to mobilize stagnant Qi and blood
- Hydrotherapy with warm compresses to enhance circulation before stimulation
Scientific Perspective
Research on acupoints like LI 11 suggests its efficacy in pain relief and inflammation reduction. Studies involving acupuncture and acupressure at LI 11 have demonstrated effects on cytokine activity, thermoregulation, and gastrointestinal motility. This aligns with its traditional uses for fever, digestive imbalance, and musculoskeletal inflammation. NIH Source