The Heavenly Appearance pressure point (SI 17) is a recognized acupressure point on the Small Intestine meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Located just beneath the earlobe, in the indentation behind the jawbone, this point is traditionally used to support throat health, regulate glandular activity, and reduce jaw-related discomfort. It plays a role in balancing local circulation and energetic flow in the neck and jaw region, making it relevant for musculoskeletal, lymphatic, and endocrine applications.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | SI 17 – Heavenly Appearance |
| Body Area | Jaw |
| Exact Location | Indentation directly below earlobe, behind jawbone |
| Common Uses | Balances thyroid, relieves jaw pain |
| Stimulation Technique | Press with middle/index fingers for 1 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid with jaw trauma, swollen glands, or post-surgical recovery |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Heavenly Appearance pressure point is clinically significant for conditions that affect the submandibular region, the jaw, and the anterior neck. It is commonly associated with:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Throat tightness or thyroid imbalance
- Muscular tension and inflammation in the jaw area
Due to its proximity to the submandibular gland, carotid sheath, and cervical lymphatic structures, SI 17 is frequently used in therapeutic routines aimed at enhancing circulation, easing local inflammation, and improving glandular regulation.
Location
SI 17 is located in the soft hollow just below the earlobe and behind the lower edge of the jawbone (mandible).
To locate it:
- Gently press behind the lower jawbone, directly under the earlobe
- Feel for a small depression between the mandible and the anterior margin of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
This point is often highlighted in neck and jaw acupressure charts and is easily accessed using light finger pressure.
How to Stimulate It
To activate the Heavenly Appearance pressure point:
- Technique: Use the pads of your index or middle fingers
- Direction: Apply gentle inward pressure toward the base of the skull
- Intensity: Moderate and comfortable — avoid excessive force
- Duration: Hold for 1 minute on each side
- Frequency: Once daily, or as needed for jaw tension or thyroid-related discomfort
- Position: Best performed seated with the head slightly turned to one side to expose the opposite point
SI 17 may be used independently or as part of a sequence targeting the jaw, neck, or throat.
Benefits and Common Uses
Stimulation of this point is associated with the following benefits:
- Reduction of jaw pain or tension, particularly around the TMJ
- Regulation of lymphatic flow and glandular activity in the neck
- Support of thyroid balance and throat clarity
- Easing of tension headaches related to jaw and neck strain
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, SI 17 is said to clear wind and benefit the throat, referencing its use in relieving blockages and swelling in the neck region. Its anatomical position lends it utility in both energetic regulation and practical muscular relief.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
The Heavenly Appearance pressure point lies over structures such as the facial vein, external carotid artery, and lymph nodes. Stimulation may:
- Encourage lymphatic drainage from the lower face and neck
- Relax surrounding muscles and fascia of the jaw and throat
- Support the parasympathetic nervous system by reducing muscular and fascial restriction in the cervical area
Energetically, SI 17 aligns with the Small Intestine meridian’s role in separating clarity from turbidity, metaphorically relating to the detoxification and regulation of fluids in the head and neck.
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point has consistently helped with jaw stiffness that develops during long periods of talking or grinding. There’s often a sense of opening or decompression after gentle pressure is applied, especially when paired with deep breathing.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid or use caution with SI 17 if:
- There is recent jaw or neck surgery
- You have visible swelling, infection, or an undiagnosed mass in the neck
- Pressure causes sharp pain or dizziness
Use gentle touch in sensitive individuals. For more guidance, refer to our acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
This point is often paired with:
- TW 17 – Wind Screen for jaw and ear tension
- LI4 – Hegu to support systemic tension relief
- CV22 – Celestial Chimney for throat-related regulation
Complementary techniques include:
- Myofascial release along the jawline
- Slow neck rotations or isometric holds after stimulation
- Breathwork to enhance the regulatory effects on the vagus nerve
Scientific Perspective
While targeted research on SI 17 is limited, studies on acupressure points in the jaw and neck region have reported improvements in jaw mobility, reduced tension in the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and decreased neck pain severity. Gentle stimulation in this area may also influence vagal tone and circulation near the thyroid and parotid glands. PubMed Source