Jawbone, also known as ST 6, is a key acupressure point on the Stomach meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Found along the mandibular line, it lies at the muscle belly of the masseter—a major muscle responsible for chewing. This point is closely linked to conditions involving the jaw, face, and lower cheek region.
Clinically, ST 6 is commonly used for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bruxism (teeth grinding), and facial paralysis. Energetically, it helps to clear stagnation and improve qi flow in the face and jaw.
Alternate names include ST 6 and Jiache.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | ST 6 – Jawbone |
| Body Area | Jaw |
| Exact Location | At the lower edge of the cheekbone, anterior to the masseter muscle’s bulge when the jaw is clenched |
| Common Uses | Jaw tension, TMJ pain, bruxism, facial paralysis |
| Stimulation Technique | Press inward with fingertip or knuckle while jaw is slightly relaxed |
| Contraindications | Avoid over-stimulation if there is active inflammation, dental surgery, or infection in the region |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
ST 6 is highly relevant in cases involving:
- TMJ dysfunction and pain around the jaw joint
- Chronic jaw clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Facial muscle fatigue or stiffness
- Unilateral facial weakness or drooping (e.g., Bell’s palsy)
- Swelling or puffiness in the lower cheek and jawline
In TCM, ST 6 disperses wind and stagnation in the face, promotes qi circulation, and supports muscle and nerve function in the lower facial region.
Location
To locate ST 6:
- Gently clench your teeth to engage the masseter muscle.
- Feel for the prominent bulge at the corner of your jaw (just below the cheekbone).
- The point lies slightly anterior and inferior to this bulge—on the line of the lower jaw, where the muscle softens when relaxed.
Use a mirror or guide if applying to yourself, as the muscle may shift subtly with head movement.
Looking for an easier way to use this point in your wellness routine? This pressure point is simple to locate and even easier to apply when guided step-by-step. It’s featured in over 70 evidence-based pressure point protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app. Whether you’re looking to reduce TMJ pain, release jaw tension, or manage facial tightness, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app
How to Stimulate It
- Tool: Index finger, middle finger, or knuckle
- Method: Press inward into the soft region of the muscle, applying firm but comfortable pressure
- Duration: 30 seconds to 1 minute per side
- Pressure Level: Moderate—adjust if tenderness or dental issues are present
- Posture: Seated or lying down, with jaw slightly open or relaxed
- Frequency: 1–2 times daily or before sleep if used for clenching/grinding
- Pairing: Often paired with SI 18 – Cheekbone Crevice and LI 4 – Joining the Valley for facial tension and jaw pain
Benefits and Common Uses
Jawbone pressure point may offer the following benefits:
- Jaw Relaxation: Eases tightness and soreness in the chewing muscles
- TMJ Support: Helps manage pain and inflammation in the temporomandibular joint
- Facial Circulation: Promotes lymphatic drainage and reduces puffiness
- Neuromuscular Balance: Assists in recovery from facial paralysis or twitching
- Energetic Flow: Clears local stagnation along the Stomach meridian pathway
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
ST 6 lies over the masseter muscle and near the facial nerve branches. Its stimulation may promote local relaxation, modulate neuromuscular tone, and improve circulation. It’s often used alongside neurological or dental rehabilitation for its role in muscular resetting.
In TCM, this point helps expel wind from the face, calm the spirit, and harmonize facial qi, especially in cases where excess tension impedes movement or comfort.
Practitioner Insight
I often include ST 6 when working with clients who grind their teeth unconsciously or experience post-dental procedure tension. It pairs beautifully with breath-led awareness and soft jaw movement exercises.
Safety & Contraindications
- Do not apply strong pressure:
- Over areas healing from dental surgery
- If there is infection, swelling, or open skin
- In individuals with nerve sensitivity or uncontrolled facial twitching
See our Acupressure Safety Guide and explore more techniques in the Acupressure category.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- SI 18 – Cheekbone Crevice for facial pain and sinus pressure
- LI 4 – Joining the Valley for full-face release and pain modulation
- TW 17 – Wind Screen for jaw/ear tension and lymphatic drainage
Adjunct methods:
- Facial tapping or vibration for myofascial softening
- Warm compress before stimulation for tension relief
- Mouthguard use review for habitual grinders or clenchers
More sessions with Jawbone (ST 6) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
Functional studies suggest that acupressure at ST 6 may reduce muscle hyperactivity in bruxism and support nerve rehabilitation in facial palsy. Early research also links stimulation in this region with decreased myofascial pain and improved jaw opening range (PubMed).