Acupuncture - Study Cards
>>This material is a compilation of the editor's personal notes, lecture notes, and the following references: 1. A Manual of Acupuncture by Peter Deadman 2. Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion by Zhang Enqin. Accuracy is not guaranteed. For studying only, not intended as medical advice.<<<
Choose a category below.
An Mian
Location
Posterior and slightly superior to GB-12
Energetics1
Insomnia, palpitations, headache, dizziness, tinnitus
Energetics2
Agitation, restlessness
Energetics3
Hypertension
Bai Lao
Location
1 cun lateral to midline and 2 cun above DU14
Energetics1
Cough, asthma, neck stiffness, whooping cough, dyspnea, spontaneous sweating, hot flashes/steaming bone disorder
Bi Tong
Location
highest part of the naso-labial groove
Energetics1
rhinitis, nasal congestion, nasal discharge, nasal polyps, allergies
BL-01
Categories
Meeting point of BL, SI, ST, GB, SJ, with DU, Yin Qiao, Yang Qiao
Location
0.1 cun medial and superior to the inner canthus of the eye, near the medial border of the orbit.
Caution
Ask patient to close their eyes and to direct the eyes as far as possible towards the side being needled, i.e. when needling left BL-1, the patient should look to the left and vice-versa. With the forefinger of one hand, gently push the eyeball to the lateral side and hold it firmly. Insert the needle slowly perpendicularly with the other hand, without lifting, thrusting or rotating to a depth of 0.5 to 1 cun. Immediately on withdrawal of the needle, press firmly with a cotton wool ball for about a minute to prevent haematoma. Contraindicated to moxibustion.
Energetics1
Local eye problems: Deficiency/excess, acute/chronic
Energetics2
THREADING: ST1 to BL1 (Patient supine or sitting on chair; horizontal threading from ST1 to BL1; indicated for myopia, Bell’s palsy, watery eye, etc.)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint. Personal Communications]
BL-02
Location
Superior to the inner canthus, in a depression on the eyebrow, close to its medial end.
Caution
Contraindicated to moxibustion.
Energetics1
Local: headache, pain along the eyebrow, sinus headache, eye’s problems
Energetics2
Acupuncture anesthesia (eye or internal organ surgery), acute lumbar sprain, hiccups
Energetics3
THREADING: BL2 to Yuyao (Patient supine or sitting on chair; pinch skin over Bl2 and threading to Yuyao; indicated for eye disorders, headaches, vertigo, and eye lid spasm) • BL2 to Yintang (Patient supine and sitting on chair; pinch the skin over Bl 2, threading direction to opposite Bl2 through Yintang; indicate for headaches, vertigo, watery eye, nasal congestion)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint. Personal Communications]
BL-03
Location
Directly superior to BL-02, 0.5 cun within the anterior hairline, level with DU-24. BL-02 is superior to the inner canthus, in a depression on the eyebrow, close to its medial end.
Caution
Contraindicated to moxibustion.
Energetics1
Epilepsy
Energetics2
Upper Jiao problems of heart and lung
Energetics3
Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-04
Location
0.5 cun within the anterior hairline, 1.5 cun lateral to DU-24 and one third of the distance between DU-24 and ST-8.
Energetics1
Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-05
Location
0.5 cun directly posterior to BL-4 • 1 cun within the anterior hairline • 1.5 cun lateral to DU-23 • The distance from the anterior hairline at the midline to DU-20 is 5 cun.
Caution
Contraindicated to moxibustion.
Energetics1
Expel internal wind: epilepsy, convulsion
Energetics2
Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-06
Location
1.5 cun posterior to Wǔchù BL-5, 2.5 cun within the anterior hairline and 1.5 cun lateral to the midline.
Caution
Contraindicated to moxibustion.
Energetics1
Vomit, irritable
Energetics2
Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-07
Location
1.5 cun posterior to BL-06 • 4 cun within the anterior hairline • 1.5 cun lateral to the midline • The distance between the glabella (M-HN-3) and the lower border of the occipital protuberance (DU-16) is measured as 14 cun • BL-7 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the midpoint of this line • BL-7 can also be located 1 cun anterior and 1.5 cun lateral to DU-20
Caution
Contraindicated to moxibustion.
Energetics1
1. Headaches 2. Helps the nose
Energetics2
Phlegm disturb upper body (asthma, goiter), neck pain, leg pain, numbness
Energetics3
Local problems: 1. headaches (vertex, occipital), heaviness of head, dizziness, unconscious 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-08
Location
1.5 cun posterior to BL-7, and 5.5 cun within the anterior hairline, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline • BL-8 is most easily located 1.5 cun lateral to and 0.5 cun posterior to DU-20 • To locate the anterior hairline if indistinct, see location note for BL-3 • Note that the distance from the anterior hairline at the midline to DU-20 is 5 cun.
Energetics1
Calm Shen: depression, mania
Energetics2
Facial paralysis
Energetics3
Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-09
Location
1.3 cun lateral to DU-17 (which is located in the depression superior to the external occipital protuberance, 1.5 cun superior to DU-16.
Caution
Point is very close to the optical nerve if needled upward.
Energetics1
Poor balance
Energetics2
Dizziness, headache
Energetics3
Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
BL-10
Categories
Window of Heaven Point, Sea of Qi Point
Location
1.3 cun lateral to DU-15 (DU-15 is 0.5 cun below DU-16, which is directly below the occipital protuberance and in a depression between the trapezius heads) • On the lateral side of the trapezius muscle.
Energetics1
Dispel wind, calm Shen, relief pain, regulate Qi, helps with head and sensory disorders
Energetics2
Stiff neck (local, wind invasion) • Throat problems • Occipital headache • Local problems: 1. headache, heaviness of head, dizziness 2. Eyes diseases 3. Nasal problems
Energetics3
BACK PAIN: lumbar and spine stiffness/pain, distal point particularly if pain is on the midline or starting from the midline and spread out [GM]
Energetics4
THREADING: BL10 to BL10 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; horizontal threading; indicated for vertigo, neck pain, blur vision, nasal congestion) [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-11
Categories
Bones Hui Point • Sea of Blood Point • Meeting Point of BL, SI, SJ, GB, and Du channels
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra (T1) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Various bone diseases (bony painful obstruction)
Caution
Perpendicular needling carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
1. Expel exterior wind: Exterior syndrome 2. Respiratory problems 3. Local problems: upper back pain, neck pain
Energetics2
HUI OF BONE: various bone diseases and rigidity and pain of the neck, spine and lumbar region. In modern clinical practice it is used when painful obstruction penetrates deeply into the bones and joints causing deformity (known as BONY PAINFUL OBSTRUCTION).
Energetics3
Calm “shen”: epilepsy, depression
Energetics4
THREADING: DU14 to Dingchuan, BL11 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture obliquely/horizontally from DU14 To BL11; indicated for flu, bronchitis, asthma, insomnia, fever, upper back pain) • BL11 to BL12, BL13, BL14 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; combine with Guasha, cupping; indicated for flu, cough, Asthma, upper back pain [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-12
Categories
Meeting point of BL with the Du meridian
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
Local problems: upper back pain, neck pain
Energetics2
EXTERIOR SYNDROME 2) Skin rashes 2. Clear heat: fever, skin infection on back 3. vomit
Energetics3
EXTERIOR WIND 1. expels wind, release exterior 2. Strengthens defensive Qi and firms exterior. 3. Descends and propagates Lung Qi 4. Benefits the nose
Energetics4
THREADING: BL11 to BL12, BL13, BL14 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; combine with Guasha, cupping; indicated for flu, cough, Asthma, upper back pain [40]
BL-13
Categories
Lung Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra (T3).
Best
Lung Qi Deficiency
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
1. EXPEL EXTERIOR WIND: EXTERIOR SYNDROME 2. RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS 3. LOCAL PROBLEMS: UPPER BACK PAIN, NECK PAIN
Energetics2
RESPIRATORY, cold LU, LU atrophy.
Energetics3
2) SKIN 3) WATER PASSAGE 4)NASAL
Energetics4
Clear empty heat (pulmonary TB) • Calm “Shen”: clear Jaki • Special feeling
Energetics5
THREADING: Dingchuan to BL13 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; indicated for flu, bronchitis, asthma, fever, upper back pain) • BL11 to BL12, BL13, BL14 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; combine with Guasha, cupping; indicated for flu, cough, Asthma, upper back pain [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-14
Categories
Pericardium Back Shu Point
Location
Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Back Shu-Pericardium
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics3
THREADING: BL11 to BL12, BL13, BL14 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; combine with Guasha, cupping; indicated for flu, cough, Asthma, upper back pain [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-15
Categories
Heart Back Shu Point
Location
Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Back Shu - Heart
Caution
Needling away from the spine can cause pneumothorax.
Energetics1
Regulate Heart Qi: Chest pain, heart pain and oppression, palpitations, breathlessness, irregular pulse
Energetics2
Nourish Heart and Calm Shen: anxiety, mania, depression, poor memory, sadness, insomnia and excessive dreaming, incessant walking
Energetics3
Clear Heart Fire: lacrimation, hemiplegia, nosebleed, jaundice, wingstroke, epistaxis
Energetics4
Resolve Blood Stasis: bloody cough, bloody vomit, night sweats, abdominal distention
Energetics5
THREADING: BL15 to BL16, BL17(Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally with about 15 degree angle; indicated for chest tension, heart palpitation, asthma, nausea, hiccup, acid reflux)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-16
Categories
None
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics2
THREADING: BL15 to BL16, BL17(Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally with about 15 degree angle; indicated for chest tension, heart palpitation, asthma, nausea, hiccup, acid reflux)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-17
Categories
Blood Hui Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the seventh thoracic vertebra (T7) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Any blood issue (heat, yu or xu)
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
HUI of BLOOD: Any blood related disorders: bloody vomit, bloody cough, bloody urine, nosebleed, bloody stool • 4 Flower point: BL-17/BL-19 for nourishing blood, empty heat, night sweats, and yin deficiency • Cools blood: chest pain, heart pain, mania or depression, sore throat, dispnea
Energetics2
DIAPHRAM SHU: hiccups, hiccough, nausea, vomiting, gas, belching, sour regurgitation
Energetics3
Whole body type painful obstruction (skin, bones, muscles), fatique, spine rigidity, body heaviness • Pain in the abdomen, epigastrium, and lateral costal region; vomiting, hiccups, stomach reflux, jaundice, lack of appetite
Energetics4
THREADING: BL15 to BL16, BL17(Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally with about 15 degree angle; indicated for chest tension, heart palpitation, asthma, nausea, hiccup, acid reflux)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-18
Categories
Liver Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Any Liver problems
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
Liver is in charge of wind.
Energetics2
THREADING: BL18 to BL19,20,21 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for gastric and abdominal distension, hypochondrium pain, poor digestion, stress)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-19
Categories
Gall Bladder Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T10) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
GB BACK SHU: LV and GB damp heat - jaundice, bitter taste, yellow in eyes, nausea, vomiting, chest and lateral costal pain and distention, dry throat.
Energetics2
4 Flower point - BL-17 and Bl-19 to nourish blood for empty heat, night sweats, yin deficiency
Energetics3
insomnia, fear, palpitations, anxiety
Energetics4
THREADING: BL18 to BL19,20,21 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for gastric and abdominal distension, hypochondrium pain, poor digestion, stress)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-20
Categories
Spleen Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11) • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Any Spleen problem
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics1
tonify SP Qi and yang, clear dampness, holds blood
Energetics2
regulate and harmonize qin in the middle jiao
Energetics3
THREADING: BL18 to BL19,20,21 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for gastric and abdominal distension, hypochondrium pain, poor digestion, stress)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-21
Categories
Stomach Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of T12 • Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Back Shu - Stomach
Caution
Perpendicular needling or oblique needling away from the spine carries risk of pneumothorax.
Energetics2
THREADING: BL18 to BL19,20,21 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for gastric and abdominal distension, hypochondrium pain, poor digestion, stress)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-22
Categories
San Jiao Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the first lumbar vertebra (L1).
Best
Promote urination, edema, water metabolism • Back Shu - San Jiao
Caution
Can injure the kidneys if needled too deeply.
BL-23
Categories
Kidney Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (L2). Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Any Kidney Xu
Caution
Kidney injury if needled too deeply.
Energetics1
KD BACK SHU: Any KD deficiency. Tonifies KD.
Energetics2
Reproductive problems - fertility disorders, menstrual issues, menopausal issues
Energetics3
KD deficiency: joint, bone and spinal issues, respiratory issues, ear problems, thinning hair, KD deficiency headaches
Energetics4
THREADING: BL23 to BL24, BL25 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for acute / chronic low back pain, abdominal pain and distension) • BL23 to DU4, DU4 to BL23 (Patient prone puncture horizontally;
lower back pain, insomnia, incontinence, impotence and infertility) • BL23 to BL 52 ( Patient prone; puncture obliquely; indicated for lower back pain, insomnia, incontinence, impotence and infertility)
[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-24
Categories
None
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the third lumbar vertebra (L3). Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Energetics3
THREADING: BL23 to BL24, BL25 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for acute / chronic low back pain, abdominal pain and distension)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-25
Categories
Large Intestine Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4).. Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Best
Back Shu - Large Intestine
Energetics3
THREADING: BL23 to BL24, BL25 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for acute / chronic low back pain, abdominal pain and distension)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-26
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5). Locate at the visible highest point of the paraspinal muscles.
Energetics1
Regulate lower jiao: enuresis, wasting and thirsting disorder, scanty urination, frequent urination
Energetics2
Benefits lumbar region: back pain due to external pathogenic invasion. Relieve pain, abdominal distention, diarrhea, and constipation
BL-27
Categories
Small Intestine Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the first posterior sacral foramen • As the inner line of the Bladder channel on the back descends towards the sacrum, it runs closer to the midline • The 1.5 cun measurement in this area will be relatively shorter
Best
Back Shu - Small Intestine
BL-28
Categories
Bladder Back Shu Point
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the second posterior sacral foramen • As the inner line of the Bladder channel on the back descends towards the sacrum, it runs closer to the midline • The 1.5 cun measurement in this area will be relatively shorter
Best
Back Shu - Bladder
BL-29
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the third posterior sacral foramen. • As the inner line of the Bladder channel on the back descends towards the sacrum, it runs closer to the midline • The 1.5 cun measurement in this area will be relatively shorter
Energetics1
dispel cold from the intestines. dysenteric disorder • hernia • wasting and thirsting disorder • abdominal distention • lateral costal pain
lumbar pain and stiffness
BL-30
Categories
None
Location
1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the fourth posterior sacral foramen • As the inner line of the Bladder channel on the back descends towards the sacrum, it runs closer to the midline • The 1.5 cun measurement in this area will be relatively shorter
Caution
Contraindicated for Moxibustion
BL-31
Categories
Meeting point of the Bladder and Gall Bladder channels
Location
Over the first posterior sacral foramen.
Caution
CC: Moxa
BL-32
Categories
Meeting point - BL & GB Channels • Empirical - Dysmenorrhea
Location
Over the second posterior sacral foramen.
Energetics1
Saline injection at BL32 is one of the best solutions for menstrual pain.[42]
BL-33
Categories
Meeting point of the Bladder and Gall Bladder channels
Location
Over the third posterior sacral foramen.
BL-34
Categories
Meeting point of the Bladder, and Gall Bladder channels
Location
Over the fourth posterior sacral foramen.
BL-35
Categories
None
Location
0.5 cun lateral to the Governing vessel, level with the tip of the coccyx.
BL-36
Categories
None
Location
Just below the buttock, on a line directly superior to BL-40, in the centre of the transverse gluteal crease in a depression between the hamstring muscles.
Energetics1
Relief pain: pain in lumbar, buttock, sacrum, coccyx. Sciatica, limb atrophy
Energetics2
Regulate lower jiao: genital pain, cold uterus, seminal emissions. Problems with urination, defecation, hemorrhoids. Axilla swelling
BL-37
Location
Lies between the hamstring muscles along the line between BL36 and BL40. 6 cun distal to BL-36. 8 cun proximal to BL-40.
Energetics1
Relief pain: pain in lumbar, thigh, and lower limbs. Muscle atrophy of lower limbs.
Energetics2
Sciatica
Energetics3
Watery diarrhea
BL-38
Categories
None
Location
On the back of the knee, 1 cun superior to BL-39, on the medial side of the tendon of biceps femoris. Locate with the knee slightly flexed.
BL-39
Categories
Lower He-Sea point of the Sanjiao
Location
At the back of the knee, on the popliteal crease and towards its lateral end, in the depression medial to the tendon of biceps femoris. Locate with the knee slightly flexed.
Best
Lower He-Sea of SJ
BL-40
Categories
Command Point - Lumbar and Back • He-Sea Point • Heavenly Star Point • EmpIrical - back pain
Location
At the back of the knee, on the popliteal crease, in a depression midway between the tendons of biceps femoris and semitendinosus. Locate with the knee slightly flexed.
Best
Best distal point for back pain or lower back pain • Cool blood • Summer heat
Caution
The tibial nerve and the popliteal artery and vein lie deep to this point.
Energetics1
COMMAND POINT: blood heat, pain, atrophy, weakess along the bladder channel (lumbar, buttock, sacrum, coccyx, thigh, hip, knee, legs) stiffness, windstroke, muscle atrophy, knee pain radiating to big toe
Energetics2
HE-SEA POINT: summer heat, alternating fevers and chills, intense thirst, vomiting , diarrhea, dysentery, sudden turmoil disorder, nosebleed, headaches, sore throat, enuresis, scanty urination, dermatological issues: clove sores, eczema, urticaria.
Energetics3
Empirical point for back and lower back pain.
Energetics4
THREADING: BL40 to BL55 (Patient prone; puncture obliquely with 15 degree
angle; indicated for lower back pain, skin disease, calf spasm)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. PowerPoint]
Energetics5
LI11+BL40 = Clear skin rashes[42]
BL-41
Categories
Meeting point of the Bladder and Small Intestine channels
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2) and level with BL-12. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
Energetics1
1. Expel exterior wind: Exterior syndrome 2. Respiratory problems 3. Local problems: upper back pain, neck pain
BL-42
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra (T3) and level with BL-13. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
Energetics1
Emotional problems related to the lung.
Energetics2
1. Expel exterior wind: Exterior syndrome 2. Respiratory problems 3. Local problems: upper back pain, neck pain
BL-43
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4) and level with BL-14. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Best
Tonify all deficiencies • Prevents asthma attacks
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
Energetics1
Benefits Original Qi • Resolves phlegm • Tonify LU, KD, SP, ST, HT • Nourish Yin • Calm Shen • Clear heat •
Energetics2
ALL DEFICIENCIES: HT: Poor memory, insomnia, mania • LU: cough, all sweating disorders, asthma • SP/ST: deficiency, poorly digested food in stool, fatigue in limbs • KD: impotence, infertility, seminal emissions
BL-44
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5) and level with BL-15. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
BL-45
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) and level with BL-16. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
BL-46
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the seventh thoracic vertebra (T7) and level with BL‑17. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
BL-47
Location
3 cun lateral to midline, level T9 spinous process and level BL-18.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling medially can risk pneumothorax.
Energetics1
Harmonize the middle jiao. Borborygmus, dark urine, vomiting, diarrhea, and irregular bowel movement
Energetics2
Relaxes tendons, muscles, and joints. Treats chest pain, chest fullness, distention of lateral costal regain, back pain
BL-48
Categories
Empirical - Yin Jaundice
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) and level with BL‑19. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Energetics1
Empirical point for Yin jaundice [42] • Clears Gall-Bladder damp-heat: yellow eyes and face, pain of the lateral costal region, dark and hesitant urination, indolence.
Treats the Spleen and Stomach: abdominal pain and distention, borborygmus, diarrhea, dysenteric disorder with blood, irregular defecation, difficult ingestion, no desire to eat.[34]
BL-49
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11) and level with BL-20. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
BL-50
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) and level with BL‑21. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular or deep oblique needling in a medial direction carries a substantial risk of causing a pneumothorax.
BL-51
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the first lumbar vertebra (L1) and level with BL‑22. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Deep perpendicular needling carries a risk of injuring the kidney.
BL-52
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (L2) and level with BL-23. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula.
Caution
Needling perpendicular may injure the kidney.
Energetics1
Tonifies KD and essence • Lower back pain • Edema • Urination disorders •
Energetics2
Sudden turmoil disorder • abdominal bloating • Pain in lateral costal area • Defecation problems
Energetics3
THREADING: BL23 to BL 52 ( Patient prone; puncture obliquely; indicated for lower back pain, insomnia, incontinence, impotence and infertility) • BL52 to DU4 ( Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for lower back pain, acute low back sprain, insomnia, incontinence, impotence and infertility)
[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-53
Categories
None
Location
3 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the spinous process of the second sacral vertebra. ii. When the shoulder is relaxed, the three cun line corresponds to the medial border of the scapula; iii. Alternatively this point may be located midway between the midline and the lateral edge of the buttock, when the lateral edge is firmly pressed in with the palm of the hand.
BL-54
Categories
None
Location
On the buttock, in the depression 3 cun lateral to the sacro-coccygeal hiatus.
Energetics3
THREADING: BL54 to GB30 ( Patient prone or side lying; puncture from BL54 to GB30; indicated for sciatic pain, enuresis, hemiplegia)[[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-55
Categories
None
Location
On the lower leg, 2 cun inferior to BL-40, on the line connecting BL-40 and BL-57, in the depression between the two heads of the gastrocnemius muscle.
Energetics3
THREADING: BL40 to BL55 (Patient prone; puncture obliquely with 15 degree
angle; indicated for lower back pain, skin disease, calf spasm)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. PowerPoint]
BL-56
Categories
None
Location
On the lower leg, 5 cun below BL-40 and midway between BL-55 and BL-57, in the centre of the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle.
Energetics2
THREADING: BL57 to BL56 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for lower back pain, calf spasm)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. PowerPoint]
BL-57
Categories
Heavenly Star Point • Empirical - hemorrhoids
Location
In the depression below the bellies of the gastrocnemius muscle. 8 cun distal to BL-40 or midway between BL-40 and BL-60. Run finger upwards from the Achilles tendon along the midline until it falls into the depression between the two origins of the gastrocnemius muscle; Press patient's foot against your hand.
Energetics3
THREADING: ST40 to BL57 (Patient supine or sitting on chair; puncture obliquely at 45 degree angle; indicated for asthma, abdominal distension, LBP, constipation, hemorrhoids) • BL57 to BL56 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for lower back pain, calf spasm) [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-58
Categories
Luo-Connecting Point, Empirical - hemorrhoids
Location
On the lower leg, 7 cun directly superior to BL-60, lateral to and approximately 1 cun inferior to BL-57.
Best
Best combo: Yuan/Luo - BL-58/KD-03 for lower back pain and lower limbs pain
Energetics1
LUO: Excess -nasal obstruction, rhinitis, runny nose, headache, back pain • Deficiency - epistaxis, rhinitis, running nose
Energetics2
Expel wind from tai yang channel (SI is hand tai yang): shoulder pain
Energetics3
Relief pain: pain in lumbar, lower limb, legs, joint, wind bi, body heaviness, sciatica, or from hemorrhoids • BACK PAIN: distal point for when the pain is also in the leg between the BL and GB channel [GM]
BL-59
Categories
Xi-Cleft point of the Yang Qiao Mai
Location
On the lower leg, 3 cun directly superior to BL-60.
Energetics1
LUMBAR PAIN: difficulty standing, unable to raise arms or legs, sciatica, swelling of lateral malleolus. Distal point for when back pain makes it difficult to walk [GM]
Energetics2
Sudden turmoil disorder, chills/fever
BL-60
Categories
Jing-River Point • Heavenly Star Point • Empirical - difficult labor
Location
Behind the ankle joint, in the depression between the prominence of the lateral malleolus and the Achilles tendon. Locate in the centre of the depression, midway between the prominence of the lateral malleolus and the posterior border of the Achilles tendon.
Best
Asprin point for pain • Tai Yang headaches • Induce labor
Caution
CC: Pregnancy
Energetics1
clear heat, pacifies wind, reduce excess, tai yang headaches
Energetics2
reduces yang, relief pain
Energetics3
promotes labor
Energetics4
THREADING: BL60 to KD3 (Patient supine or sitting on chair; puncture from BL60 to KD3; indicated for headache, stiff neck, upper back tension, heel pain, toothache, sore throat, irregular menstruation) • BL60 to KD6 (Patient supine or sitting on chair; puncture from BL60 to KD6; indicated for nausea, diarrhea, toothache, sore throat, heel pain [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-61
Categories
Meeting point of the Bladder channel with the Yang Motility vessel
Location
On the lateral side of the foot, 1.5 cun inferior to BL-60, in a tender depression on the calcaneum. The distance between the prominence of the lateral malleolus and the sole of the foot is 3 cun; locate BL-61 directly below BL-60 and midway between this point and the sole
BL-62
Categories
Confluent point of the Yang Qiao Mai • Ghost point
Location
On the lateral side of the foot, approximately 0.5 cun inferior to the inferior border of the lateral malleolus, in a depression posterior to the peroneal tendons.
Best
KD6/BL62: Tonify KD6 sedate BL62 for jet lag, daytime arrival, drowsiness, brain fog / Tonify BL62 sedate K6 for insomnia (difficulty falling asleep, wake up frequently, dream disturbed sleep) • SI3/BL62: tai yang headaches, clear heat, opens the Du channel, reduces excess
Energetics1
YANG QIAO CONFLUENCE POINT: enters brain at DU16. Expel exterior wind and interior wind, lockjaw, bell's palsy, windstroke, epilepsy, hemiplegia
Energetics2
GHOST POINT: palpitations, mania, depression, epilepsy
Energetics3
Channel: Inner canthus redness and pain, back pain, lumbar pain, lower limb spasms, and foot EVERSION • BACK PAIN: distal point when pain is unilateral and radiates down one leg [GM]
Energetics4
Expel cold and heat to treat one-sided head wind.
BL-63
Categories
Xi-Cleft point • Meeting point of BL and Yang Wei Mai
Location
On the lateral side of the foot, in the depression posterior to the tuberosity of the fifth metatarsal bone • The tuberosity of the fifth metatarsal bone is the most palpable landmark on the lateral side of the foot.
Best
Any Bi Pain (intense painful obstruction)
BL-64
Categories
Yuan Source point
Location
On the lateral side of the foot, in the depression anterior and inferior to the tuberosity of the fifth metatarsal bone • The tuberosity of the fifth metatarsal bone is the most palpable landmark on the lateral side of the foot.
Energetics3
THREADING: SP4 to BL64 (Patient supine or sitting on chair; puncture from SP4 to BL64; indicated for abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, headaches, stiff neck, foot
neuropathy, diabetes, foot neuropathy)[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-65
Categories
Shu-Stream • Mother Point
Location
On the lateral side of the foot, in the depression posterior and inferior to the head of the fifth metatarsal bone [36] • Run a finger distally along the lateral side of the foot from BL-64 until it falls into the depression.
Energetics1
Treat head and eye disorders, clear heat, relief pain, reduce swelling.
Energetics2
Dizziness, occipital headaches, neck stiffness, chills and fever, eye pain and redness, Wind-cold, hemorrhoids,
Energetics3
Pain along the lumbar, back, and thigh region
Energetics4
THREADING: SP3 to K1, BL65 (Patient supine or sitting on chair; puncture from SP3 to K1, BL65; indicated for headaches, vertigo, stiff neck, tinnitus, LBP, abdominal distension, tremor, foot neuropathy) [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
BL-66
Categories
Ying-Spring • Horary Point
Location
On the lateral side of the foot, in the depression anterior and inferior to the fifth metatarso-phalangeal joint • First locate BL-65, then run the finger over the prominence of the metatarso-phalangeal joint until it falls into the depression at the base of the little toe.
Energetics1
Clears the head: head heaviness, dizziness, neck pain
Energetics2
Descenda lung Qi: cough, dyspnea, chest fullness, mania
Energetics3
Descends stomach Qi: vomiting
BL-67
Categories
Jing-Well Point • Child Point • Empirical - difficult labor
Location
On the dorsal aspect of the little toe, at the junction of lines drawn along the lateral border of the nail and the base of the nail, approximately 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail.
Best
Turning fetus 29-38 weeks by 90%
Energetics1
Tonifying bleeding technique for frequent urination/ fluid disorder/ pitting edema: puncture and immediately discard lancet. Use a cotton ball to count and mop each blood drop until get to 10 (squeeze the area for blood). Finally, use a dry cotton ball to clean up area. [Pollak. July 24,2024. Personal communication]
Ding Chuan
Location
0.5 to 1 cun lateral to the depression below the spinous process of C7 (DU14)[36]
Energetics1
Asthma, wheezing, cough, urticaria, pain of the upper back.[36]
Energetics3
THREADING: DU14 to Dingchuan, BL11 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture obliquely/horizontally from DU14 To BL11; indicated for flu, bronchitis, asthma, insomnia, fever, upper back pain) • Dingchuan to Dingchuan (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; indicated for flu, bronchitis, asthma, fever, upper back pain) • Dingchuan to BL13 (Patient prone or sitting on chair; puncture horizontally; indicated for flu, bronchitis, asthma, fever, upper back pain)
[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. PowerPoint]
DU-01
Categories
LUO Connecting Point • Ren, DU, GB, KD Meeting Point
Location
Halfway between the coccyx tip and the anus.
Energetics1
Bloody stool, hemorrhoids, rectum prolapse, diarrhea, lower back pain, constipation [42]
Energetics2
urination disorders, urine retention, UTI [42]
Energetics3
Calms shen, mania, epilepsy [42]
DU-02
Location
Midline, in the sacrum hiatus.
Energetics1
lower back pain, muscle atrophy, hemorrhoids
Energetics2
Irregular menses, leucorrhea, epilepsy
Energetics3
THREADING: DU2 to DU3 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for lower back pain, irregular menstruation, nocturnal emission, incontinence, impotence) [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
DU-03
Location
In the depression inferior to the L4 spinous process.
Caution
Spinal canal lies between 1.25 and 1.75 cun deep.
Energetics1
expel wind damp, regulate lower jiao, helps lumbar and lower extremities
Energetics2
limited ROM for knee and leg, disorders of lower limbs, bi zheng
Energetics3
dysmenorrhea, leucorrhea, impotence, seminal emissions
Energetics4
THREADING: DU2 to DU3 (Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for lower back pain, irregular menstruation, nocturnal emission, incontinence, impotence) [Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
DU-04
Categories
Empirical - KD Yang, essence
Location
In the depression below the L2 spinous process.
Best
Kidney yang deficiency
Caution
Spinal canal. Contraindicated for Moxa for age <20.
Energetics1
Important point for KD yang deficiency. Lumbar spine: pain and stiffness of lumbar which may radiate to abdomen. KD Xu lumbar pain. Deficiency lumbar pain, cold Bi of hands/feet
Energetics2
Tonify KD: Red/white leucorrhea, seminal emissions
Energetics3
Clear heat: steaming bones disorder, no sweating, five zang heat, other heat signs, alternating chills and fever
Energetics4
Regulate DU: tinnitus, splitting headache, dizziness, childhood epilepsy, fear, bloody stool, hemorrhoids, rectum prolapse
Energetics5
THREADING: BL23 to DU4, DU4 to BL23 (Patient prone puncture horizontally;
lower back pain, insomnia, incontinence, impotence and infertility) • BL52 to DU4 ( Patient prone; puncture horizontally; indicated for lower back pain, acute low back sprain, insomnia, incontinence, impotence and infertility)
[Fan, Y. July 22, 2024. Powerpoint]
DU-05
Location
Below the spinous process of L1. On the midline.
Energetics1
Lower back pain and stiffness, diarrhea, hernia/Shan disorder, indigestion, running piglet Qi
DU-06
Location
In the depression below the spinous process of T11.[36]
Caution
The spinal canal lies between 1.25 and 1.75 cun deep to the skin surface, varying according to body build.
Note: according to a number of classical texts, this point is contraindicated to moxibustion.[36]
Energetics1
Fortifies the Spleen and drains damp
Benefits the spine [36]
Energetics2
Abdominal fullness with no appetite, abdominal masses, jaundice, diarrhea, inability to eat, blood in the stool, the five types of hemorrhoids, prolapse of the rectum in children. Stiffness of the lumbar spine, wind epilepsy, warm febrile disease.[36]
DU-07
Location
in the depression below the spinous process of T10. This point is located five intervertebral spaces above the line connecting the highest points of the two iliac crests (this line is level with the lower border of L3).[36]
Caution
the spinal canal lies between 1.25 and 1.75 cun deep to the skin surface, varying according to body build.[36]
Energetics1
Benefit the spine and Middle Jiao. Pain of the lumbar region and back. Abdominal fullness, no desire to eat, jaundice, amenorrhea.[36]. This point is rarely used.
DU-08
Categories
Empirical - spasms
Location
Below the T9 spinous process
Caution
Spinal canal
Energetics1
calm Shen, calm spasms, mania, incessant pacing, epilepsy, expel interior wind, soothe liver
Energetics2
Spine contraction and stiffness, heart pain
DU-09
Categories
Empirical - Jaundice
Location
Below spinous process of T7
Energetics1
Empirical point for jaundice [35] • Tonify Spleen, regulates the middle jiao, drain dampness: Cold Stomach, poor appetite, borborygmus, four limbs weakness and pain, whole body
Energetics2
Unbinds chest: chest fullness, lateral costal region distension, cough, dyspnea
Energetics3
Kidney heat, lumbar pain, spine stiffness, jaundice
