Where does the LI-17 acupuncture point caution against needle insertion?

The LI-17 acupuncture point, also known as Shoudou, is located on the lateral side of the neck, specifically between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the lateral border of the trapezius muscle. When needling this point, caution is advised due to its proximity to important anatomical structures, particularly the jugular vein.

Inserting a needle at LI-17 poses a risk of puncturing or damaging the jugular vein, which is a major blood vessel responsible for draining blood from the head and neck back to the heart. Understanding the location and the vasculature of the neck is crucial for safe acupuncture practice.

Awareness of the anatomical layout helps practitioners avoid complications and ensures patient safety. Other nearby structures, such as the carotid artery, though significant, are located a bit deeper and less directly in line with the LI-17 point compared to the jugular vein, where a direct needle insertion could lead to more immediate adverse effects. Therefore, the correct response highlights the importance of being vigilant regarding the jugular vein when considering needling techniques at this acupuncture point.