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Alternate names: BL-40

Channel: BL, Foot Greater Yáng (tài yáng) Bladder Channel

Modern location: An acupoint located on the upper back, level with the inferior border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra, 3 cùn lateral to the midline.

Classic location: On the inner side of the shoulder, three cùn either side of the spine, below the sixth vertebra. The point is found in straight sitting posture. When firm pressure is applied, the patient cries ``ee shee'' indicating that the point has been found. (Zhēn Jiǔ Dà Chéng)

Local anatomy: Posterior branches of the intercostal artery and vein. Medial cutaneous branches of the posterior rami of the 5th and 6th thoracic nerves; deeper, their lateral branches.

Action: Resolves the exterior and clears heat; diffuses the lung and rectifies qì; frees the channels and quickens the network vessels.

Modern indications: Cough; panting; dysentery; febrile disease; shoulder and back pain.

Classic indications: Lower rib pain associated with smaller abdominal pain and distension; dizzy vision; chest pain associated with pain on the inner side of the shoulder and arm; malarial disease.

Needle stimulus: Needling: 0.5 cùn downward oblique insertion. Moxa: 3‒7 cones; pole 10‒30 min.

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