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9. Arm Jue Yin Pericardium Meridian

Pathway:

The Pericardium Meridian starts from the chest, leaves the pericardium organ and runs downwards through the diaphragm to connect with the triple burner. A branch rising from the chest emerges from the lower chest region and travels upwards to the axilla (armpit). From the medial aspect of the upper arm, it makes its way down between the lung and heart channels, until it reaches the elbow crease. It then runs down the forearm and enters the palm ending at the tip of the middle finger. Another short branch splits off from the palm to connect with the Triple Burner Meridian at the end of the ring finger.

Symptoms:

Disharmony of the Pericardium Meridian is related to the imbalance of the TCM heart and blood functions. The manifestation includes heart pain (precordial pain), chest discomfort, palpitations and an oppressed feeling in the chest. Since the Heart stores the "shen" or mental activities, Pericardium Meridian disorders are related to mania. In addition, swelling of the axilla and spasms of the elbow and arm can indicate a problem in this meridian, since it passes through these areas.

Main indications:

Acupuncture points in this meridian are used for heart, chest, and peptic diseases as well as mental illness. They are also indicated for symptoms manifested along the meridian's pathway.