Neurological — Ataxia / Coordination Problems
BL 10 Bladder 10 (BL10) – Tianzhu, Celestial Pillar
BL10 can help release tension in the neck, calm the nervous system, and strengthen the immune system.
Bladder 10 (BL10), also known as Tianzhu or Celestial Pillar, is an important acupuncture point located on the horse's neck. It is often used to support the neck and promote overall well-being.
BL10 is located on both sides of the spine, about 1.5 cun lateral to the first cervical vertebra (atlas), just below the occipital bone.
BL10 can help release tension in the neck, calm the nervous system, and strengthen the immune system.
This point should be used with caution, as it is located near sensitive structures. If in doubt, always consult an experienced professional.
Location BL10 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the dorsal-most point of the atlas wing, in a depression between the trapezius and brachiocephalicus muscles, caudal to the occipital bone.
Functions BL10 is used to treat neck stiffness, headaches, wind invasion, neurological disorders, and to harmonize Qi in the head region.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as BL10 is in close proximity to nerves, vessels, and the spinal cord. Aseptic technique and precise anatomical knowledge are essential.
BL 11 Bladder 11 (BL11) – Dazhu, Great Shuttle
BL11 is traditionally used to strengthen bones, joints, and to support the immune system.
Bladder 11 (BL11), also known as Dazhu, is an important acupuncture point located on the horse's back. It is often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
BL11 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the withers, approximately at the line of the first rib.
BL11 is traditionally used to strengthen bones, joints, and to support the immune system.
This point should be used with care to avoid stressing or injuring the horse. If in doubt, always consult a professional.
Location BL11 is located 1.5 Cun lateral to the dorsal midline at the level of the second thoracic vertebra (T2), usually at the level of the first rib.
Functions BL11 is the Hui-Meeting point for bones, influences bone growth, joints, and is used for musculoskeletal and immunological issues.
Safety When treating BL11, be aware of its proximity to the spine and lungs. Avoid deep needling to prevent pneumothorax.
BL 18 Bladder 18 (BL18) – Ganshu, Liver Shu
BL18 is traditionally used to support liver function, for eye issues, or muscle tension.
Bladder 18 (BL18), also known as Ganshu, is an important acupuncture point on the bladder meridian, closely related to liver function in horses.
BL18 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the 10th thoracic vertebra, about three finger-widths lateral to the midline.
BL18 is traditionally used to support liver function, for eye issues, or muscle tension.
This point should be treated with care as it is located near the ribs. Improper use may cause discomfort.
Location BL18 is located 3 cun lateral to the caudal end of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra, within the intercostal space.
Functions BL18 tonifies Liver Qi, moves blood, clears heat, and is used for Liver Qi stagnation, eye disorders, muscle tension, and emotional imbalances.
Safety When needling BL18, be mindful of the proximity to the pleura and ribs to avoid pneumothorax or hematoma.
BL 23 Bladder 23 (BL23) – Shenshu, Kidney Shu
Bl23 is traditionally used to strengthen kidney energy, address back problems, and support the musculoskeletal system.
Bladder 23 (Bl23), also known as Shenshu, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's back, often used to support kidney function.
Bl23 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the second lumbar vertebra, about one hand's width from the midline.
Bl23 is traditionally used to strengthen kidney energy, address back problems, and support the musculoskeletal system.
This point should be used with care, especially in weakened or older horses. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Bl23 is located bilaterally, 1.5 Cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (L2).
Functions Bl23 tonifies kidney Qi, supports essence (Jing), and is used for lumbago, hindquarter weakness, fertility disorders, and chronic exhaustion.
Safety Caution is advised in horses with acute back pain or local lesions. Aseptic technique and precise localization are essential to avoid complications.
BL 62 Bladder 62 (BL62) – Shenmai, Extending Vessel
BL62 is traditionally used to support lameness, back tension, and to promote inner calm.
Bladder 62 (Shenmai) is an important acupuncture point on the horse's hind limb, often used to support the musculoskeletal system and emotional balance.
BL62 is located below the hock joint, just beneath the outer ankle bone on the hind limb.
BL62 is traditionally used to support lameness, back tension, and to promote inner calm.
Application should only be performed by trained individuals, as improper stimulation can cause discomfort. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location BL62 is located distal to the lateral malleolus of the tibia, in a depression between the malleolus and the calcaneus, laterally on the hind limb.
Functions BL62 is the opening point of the Yang Qiao Mai and is used for treating hindlimb lameness, back tension, neurological disorders, and for sedation in cases of restlessness.
Safety In horses with local injuries or infections at the point, BL62 should not be needled. Use caution in very nervous or pain-sensitive animals.
GB 20 Gallbladder 20 (GB20) – Fengchi, Wind Pool
GB20 can help dispel wind, relieve pain, and promote blood circulation in the head and neck area.
GB20, also known as Fengchi or Wind Pond, is an important acupuncture point located on the horse's head. It is commonly used to treat headaches, neck stiffness, and some neurological issues.
GB20 is located bilaterally at the back of the head, in a depression between the occipital bone and the first cervical vertebra, just below the base of the ear.
GB20 can help dispel wind, relieve pain, and promote blood circulation in the head and neck area.
GB20 should be used with caution, as it is close to sensitive structures. Only trained personnel should treat this point.
Location GB20 is located in the depression between the mastoid process and the wing of the atlas, at the level of the ear base, lateral to the midline.
Functions GB20 is used to treat external and internal wind, headaches, ataxia, neck stiffness, and neurological disorders. It influences the circulation of Qi and blood in the head region.
Safety When treating GB20, be aware of the proximity to nerves and blood vessels. Too deep or improper needling can lead to complications.
GB 34 Gallbladder 34 (GB34) – Yanglingquan, Yang Mound Spring
GB34 is traditionally used to support muscles, tendons, and joints. It can help improve mobility and relieve pain.
GB34, also known as Yanglingquan, is an important acupuncture point located on the hind limb of the horse. It is often used to support the muscles and in cases of movement disorders.
GB34 is located on the lateral side of the hind limb, just below and in front of the head of the fibula, in a small depression.
GB34 is traditionally used to support muscles, tendons, and joints. It can help improve mobility and relieve pain.
This point should be treated carefully, as it can be sensitive. If unsure, always consult an experienced professional.
Location GB34 is located in the depression craniodistal to the head of the fibula, between the peroneus longus and lateral digital extensor muscles.
Functions GB34 is the Hui point of tendons and muscles, influences the liver and gallbladder meridians, and is used for lameness, muscle tension, and mobility disorders.
Safety Stimulation of GB34 should be performed with care, especially in horses with local lesions or increased sensitivity. Aseptic technique and precise localization are essential.
KI 3 Kidney 3 (KI3) – Taixi, Great Stream
Taixi is used to strengthen kidney energy, in cases of weakness, back problems, or to support the musculoskeletal system.
Kidney 3 (KI3), also known as Taixi, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's hind limb, frequently used to support kidney function.
KI3 is located on the medial side of the hind limb, in the depression between the fetlock and the calcaneus, just behind the splint bone.
Taixi is used to strengthen kidney energy, in cases of weakness, back problems, or to support the musculoskeletal system.
This point is located near sensitive structures, so caution is required. Only use on a calm horse and with proper technique.
Location KI3 is located in the depression between the medial malleolus of the tibia and the tuber calcanei, at the level of the fetlock joint.
Functions KI3 tonifies kidney Yin and Yang, strengthens the lumbar region, supports the hind limbs, and is used for lameness, back pain, and reproductive disorders.
Safety KI3 is close to vessels and tendons. Needling should be performed with anatomical precision to avoid injury.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4) – Hegu, Union Valley
LI4 is traditionally used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It can also help with issues in the head region.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4), also known as Hegu, is a key acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb. It is commonly used to support the immune system and relieve pain.
LI4 is located on the medial forelimb, between the second and third metacarpal bones, near the fetlock joint.
LI4 is traditionally used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It can also help with issues in the head region.
LI4 should not be used in pregnant mares as it may induce contractions. Application should always be performed by an experienced professional.
Location LI4 is located distally and medially on the forelimb, in the depression between the second and third metacarpal bones, at the level of the fetlock joint.
Functions LI4 is a Yuan-source point, used for treating pain, inflammation, fever, and for immunomodulation. It affects disorders of the head, teeth, and skin.
Safety Contraindicated in pregnancy due to its labor-inducing effect. Use caution in debilitated or very young animals.
SI 3 Small Intestine 3 (SI3) – Houxi, Back Stream
SI3 is often used to relieve musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back and neck areas. It can also promote general well-being.
Small Intestine 3 (SI3), also known as Houxi, is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
SI3 is located on the outside of the forelimb, just behind the fetlock joint, in a small depression above the fetlock head.
SI3 is often used to relieve musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back and neck areas. It can also promote general well-being.
This point should be treated with care, as improper use may cause discomfort. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location SI3 is located distally on the lateral splint bone of the forelimb, in the depression proximal to the fetlock joint, between the lateral splint bone head and the fetlock bone.
Functions SI3 is the Shu-stream and Wood point of the Small Intestine meridian. It is used for treating lameness, neck stiffness, back pain, and to support neurological disorders.
Safety When using SI3, ensure correct needling technique and calm restraint of the horse to prevent stress and injury.
ST 36 Stomach 36 (ST36) – Shin (anterior)
ST36 is used to promote digestion, strengthen the immune system, and generally vitalize the body.
Stomach 36 (ST36), also known as 'Third Mile', is a key acupuncture point on the horse's lower foreleg. It is commonly used to support digestion and strengthen the body.
ST36 is located on the outer, front lower leg, about one hand's width below the patella and slightly lateral to the shinbone.
ST36 is used to promote digestion, strengthen the immune system, and generally vitalize the body.
This point should be treated carefully as it is near sensitive structures. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location ST36 is located lateral to the tibial tuberosity, approximately 3 cun distal to the patella, between the cranial tibial muscle and the long digital extensor muscle.
Functions ST36 tonifies Qi and blood, strengthens immunity, regulates the gastrointestinal tract, and is used for weakness, colic, and loss of appetite.
Safety Caution with deep needling to avoid injury to tendons and nerves. Do not needle ST36 in case of local swelling or injury.