Yin and Yang Cupping

Course Content

As a Fire Element, the SI channel is the most intense channel in the Yang category. The Small Intestine channel deals with integration as well as assimilation. When there is physical and emotional trauma in the body, the Small Intestine Channel can be treated with great effect. In side lying position, we have good access to the Small Intestine Meridian. Here, we can stretch out the channel and perform our cupping techniques to move Qi and Blood. This treatment should always be considered with any chronic shoulder and neck injuries.

Anatomically, the Small Intestine channel passes through the Teres, Infranatus, and Supraspinatus Muscles, which are three of the four rotator cuff muscles.

This area should not be treated with cupping if there is acute inflammation.

Shoulder injuries and the Small Intestine

Most shoulder injuries include some involvement from the Small Intestine channel, and in both East and Western shoulder treatment, it is an area that is often overlooked.

The rotator cuff muscles are seen in the image below, and beside it the pathway of the Small Intestine meridian.

SI 9 is the Teres Minor muscle

SI 10-13 is the Infraspinatus muscle

SI 14-15 are accociated with the Supraspinatus muscle

3 of the 4 rotator cuff muscles are on the Small Intestine channel

rotator_cuff2 SI-9-15