Back — Back tension
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 20 Bladder 20 (BL20) – Pishu, Spleen Shu
BL20 is used to strengthen the spleen, promote digestion, and support the immune system. It can also help with weakness or fatigue.
Bladder 20 (BL20) – Pishu is an important acupuncture point on the bladder meridian, often used to support spleen function in horses.
BL20 is located bilaterally to the spine, at the level of the 18th thoracic vertebra, in the depression between the back and rib muscles.
BL20 is used to strengthen the spleen, promote digestion, and support the immune system. It can also help with weakness or fatigue.
Treatment of this point should be done carefully to avoid stressing or injuring the horse. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location BL20 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 18th thoracic vertebra, in the area of the long back muscles.
Functions BL20 is the back-Shu point of the spleen, regulates Qi and blood, strengthens the middle, promotes transformation and transportation, and is used for spleen Qi deficiency, digestive disorders, and chronic weakness.
Safety When needling BL20, pay attention to depth and direction to avoid injuring underlying structures. Avoid deep needling in very thin horses.
BL 21 Bladder 21 (BL21) – Weishu, Stomach Shu
Bl21 is used to support digestion, in cases of loss of appetite or gastric disorders. It can help improve the horse's general well-being.
Bladder 21 (Bl21), also known as Weishu, is an important acupuncture point on the bladder meridian and is referred to as the Stomach-Shu point. It is often used to support stomach function in horses.
Bl21 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the 13th thoracic vertebra, about three finger-widths lateral to the dorsal spinous processes.
Bl21 is used to support digestion, in cases of loss of appetite or gastric disorders. It can help improve the horse's general well-being.
Treatment of this point should be done carefully, especially in very thin or sensitive horses. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Bl21 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the caudal end of the 13th thoracic vertebra, along the bladder meridian, typically in the depression between the long back muscles.
Functions Bl21 tonifies stomach Qi, regulates the middle, and can be used in cases of chronic dyspepsia, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weakness of the digestive tract.
Safety Caution is advised in horses with marked muscle atrophy or local lesions. Aseptic technique is mandatory to prevent infection.
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 25 Bladder 25 (BL25) – Dachangshu, Large Intestine Shu
BL25 is used to support bowel function, in cases of constipation, diarrhea, and lower back pain.
Bladder 25 (BL25), also known as Dachangshu, is the Shu point of the large intestine and is often used in acupuncture for digestive issues.
BL25 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the second sacral foramen.
BL25 is used to support bowel function, in cases of constipation, diarrhea, and lower back pain.
This point should only be treated by trained individuals, as it is located near sensitive structures.
Location BL25 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the dorsal midline, at the level of the second sacral foramen.
Functions BL25 regulates the large intestine, promotes transformation of dampness, and is used for lumbosacral disorders.
Safety Caution with deep needling to avoid injury to the sacral nerves and adjacent structures.
BL 26 Bladder 26 (BL26) – L4 paraspinal
BL26 can help relieve back pain and improve mobility. It is also used to support kidney function.
Bladder 26 (BL26) is an important acupuncture point on the horse's back, often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
BL26 is located on both sides of the spine at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4), about one hand's width from the midline.
BL26 can help relieve back pain and improve mobility. It is also used to support kidney function.
This point should be treated carefully to avoid startling or injuring the horse. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location BL26 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the dorsal process of the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4), in the area of the paraspinal muscles.
Functions BL26 is used to treat lumbago, hindlimb weakness, lower back disorders, and to support kidney and bladder function.
Safety When needling BL26, pay attention to depth and direction to avoid injury to the paraspinal muscles and deeper structures.
BL 27 Bladder 27 (BL27) – L5 paraspinal
Bl27 is traditionally used to support bladder and intestinal function and may help with issues in the lower back region.
Bladder 27 (Bl27) is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s back, often used to support bladder and intestinal function.
Bl27 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5), about a thumb’s width from the spinous process.
Bl27 is traditionally used to support bladder and intestinal function and may help with issues in the lower back region.
This point should be used with care to avoid stressing or injuring the horse. When in doubt, always consult a professional.
Location Bl27 is located 2 Cun lateral to the dorsal midline at the level of the interspace between the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) and the sacrum.
Functions Bl27 is the Shu point of the Small Intestine, influences transformation and transportation of fluids, and is used for lumbago, dysuria, and diarrhea.
Safety When treating Bl27, be aware of the proximity to deeper structures; aseptic technique and calm handling are essential.
BL 28 Bladder 28 (BL28) – Pangguangshu, Bladder Shu
BL28 is used to strengthen bladder function, support urinary issues, and relax the lower back area.
Bladder 28 (BL28) – Pangguangshu is an important acupuncture point on the bladder meridian, traditionally used to support bladder function in horses.
BL28 is located bilaterally to the spine, in the depression between the second and third sacral foramina, about 1.5 cun lateral to the midline.
BL28 is used to strengthen bladder function, support urinary issues, and relax the lower back area.
This point should be used with caution, especially in weakened or very sensitive horses. When in doubt, always consult a professional.
Location BL28 is located at the level of the second sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the dorsal midline, usually palpable as a small depression.
Functions BL28 tonifies and regulates the bladder, supports in cases of dysuria, urinary retention, lumbago, and can be used for treating sciatica.
Safety In horses with acute infections or severe lumbar syndromes, BL28 should only be needled after thorough assessment and under sterile conditions.
BL 40 Bladder 40 (BL40) – Weizhong, Middle of the Crook
Bl40 is traditionally used to relieve back pain, hind limb problems, and to promote blood circulation.
Bladder 40 (Bl40), also called Weizhong, is an important acupuncture point located in the middle of the horse's stifle crease. It is often used to support back and hind limb issues.
Bl40 is located exactly in the middle of the stifle crease, between the tendons, when the hind limb is slightly flexed.
Bl40 is traditionally used to relieve back pain, hind limb problems, and to promote blood circulation.
Bl40 is located in the stifle crease, where important blood vessels and nerves run. Therefore, this point should be treated carefully and with proper knowledge.
Location Bl40 is located on the bladder meridian, exactly in the center of the popliteal fossa, between the biceps femoris muscle (lateral) and the semitendinosus muscle (medial).
Functions Bl40 is used to treat lumbago, sciatica, hind limb lameness, myopathies, and to promote Qi and blood flow along the bladder meridian.
Safety Due to the proximity of the popliteal artery and vein as well as the tibial nerve, special caution is required when needling. Aseptic technique and a calm horse are essential.
BL 54 Bladder 54 (BL54) – Mid-calf (Chengshan region)
Bl54 is traditionally used to relieve pain and tension in the hindquarters and to support mobility.
Bladder 54 (Bl54) is an important acupuncture point located on the middle lower leg of the horse, often used to support the hindquarters.
Bl54 is located on the middle lower leg, in the Chengshan area, roughly halfway between the hock and the fetlock, on the back of the leg.
Bl54 is traditionally used to relieve pain and tension in the hindquarters and to support mobility.
This point should be treated with care as it is close to important structures. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Bl54 is located along the bladder meridian, approximately halfway between the tuber calcanei and the fetlock joint, lateral to the superficial digital flexor tendon.
Functions Bl54 is used for treating lumbosacral issues, sciatica, hindlimb lameness, and to promote local circulation.
Safety When needling Bl54, be aware of the proximity to tendons and vessels; aseptic technique and a calm horse are essential.
GB 21 Gallbladder 21 (GB21) – Jianjing, Shoulder Well
GB21 is used to relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve blood circulation in the shoulder area. It can also help with stress and restlessness.
GB21, also known as Jianjing, is an important acupuncture point on the Gallbladder meridian, located in the shoulder area. It is often used to help relieve tension and pain in the shoulder and neck region.
GB21 is located on the line between the withers and the shoulder joint, approximately in the middle of the upper shoulder area. It is usually palpable as a small depression.
GB21 is used to relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve blood circulation in the shoulder area. It can also help with stress and restlessness.
GB21 should be used with caution as it is close to sensitive structures. Only trained individuals should apply it to avoid injury.
Location GB21 is located at the highest point of the trapezius muscle, midway between the spinous process of the last cervical vertebra and the acromion of the scapula.
Functions GB21 is used to treat shoulder and neck tension, local pain, forelimb paralysis, and to support in cases of parturition difficulties.
Safety Caution with deep needling, as the point is near important neurovascular structures. Do not use in pregnant mares, as GB21 may induce contractions.
GB 29 Gallbladder 29 (GB29) – Hip region
This point can help release tension in the hip area and improve mobility.
GB29 is an important acupuncture point located at the horse’s hip, often used to support mobility.
GB29 is located at the junction of the pelvis and hip, in a depression in front of the hip joint.
This point can help release tension in the hip area and improve mobility.
Application should be done carefully, as the point is close to major joints. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location GB29 (Juliao) is located in the depression between the tuber coxae and the cranial border of the greater trochanter.
Functions GB29 is used to treat lameness, hip joint dysfunction, and local pain. It influences Qi and blood circulation in the hip region.
Safety Caution in cases of acute inflammation or trauma in the hip region. Do not use in cases of fracture or severe lesions.
GB 30 Gallbladder 30 (GB30) – Huantiao, Jumping Circle
GB30 is used to promote hindquarter mobility, relieve hip pain, and relax the surrounding muscles.
GB30, also known as Huantiao or Ring Hip, is an important acupuncture point in horses, commonly used to support the hindquarters and address hip issues.
GB30 is located at the junction of the pelvis and hindquarters, roughly where a line runs from the sacrum to the greater trochanter of the femur.
GB30 is used to promote hindquarter mobility, relieve hip pain, and relax the surrounding muscles.
GB30 should be used with care, as it is located near important nerves and large muscles. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location GB30 is located at the intersection of a line from the tuber sacrale to the tuber coxae and a line from the tuber ischiadicum to the greater trochanter of the femur, typically within the gluteus medius muscle region.
Functions GB30 is used to treat hindlimb lameness, sciatic pain, muscle tension, and paresis. It influences the gallbladder meridian and promotes Qi and blood flow in the hip area.
Safety Caution is required when needling GB30: the point is close to the sciatic nerve and deep muscle groups. Aseptic technique and precise localization are essential to avoid complications.
GV 14 Governing Vessel 14 (GV14) – Dazhui, Great Vertebra
Du14 is used to strengthen the immune system, reduce fever, and support in cases of infections.
Governor Vessel 14 (Du14), also known as Dazhui, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s back. It is often used to support the immune system and in cases of fever.
Du14 is located at the junction of the neck and back, directly on the midline, at the spinous process of the last cervical vertebra (C7).
Du14 is used to strengthen the immune system, reduce fever, and support in cases of infections.
This point should be used with caution as it is close to the spine. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Du14 is located on the dorsal midline, caudal to the spinous process of C7, at the junction with the first thoracic vertebra (T1).
Functions Du14 acts on Yang Qi, clears heat, supports Wei Qi, and is used for fever, infections, weakness, and neck stiffness.
Safety Caution is required when needling due to proximity to the dura mater and spinal cord. Avoid deep needling, especially in young or sensitive horses.
GV 3 Governing Vessel 3 (GV3) – Yaoyangguan, Lumbar Yang Gate
Yaoyangguan is used to support the lumbar area, for back pain, and to promote mobility.
Governor Vessel 3 (Du3), also known as Yaoyangguan, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's back, often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
Du3 is located on the midline of the back, between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae.
Yaoyangguan is used to support the lumbar area, for back pain, and to promote mobility.
This point should be treated with caution as it is located near the spine. Only trained personnel should use this point.
Location Du3 is located on the dorsal midline, in the depression between the spinous processes of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae (L4-L5).
Functions Du3 regulates the Yang Qi of the lumbar region, strengthens the hindquarters, alleviates lumbago, and is used in neurological disorders of the hind limbs.
Safety Caution is advised in horses with spinal issues or local lesions. Aseptic technique and precise localization are essential to avoid complications.
GV 4 Governing Vessel 4 (GV4) – Mingmen, Gate of Life
Mingmen is traditionally used to strengthen kidney energy, support vitality (Qi), and assist the back.
Governor Vessel 4 (Du4), also known as Mingmen or Gate of Life, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s back. It is often used to support vitality and energy balance.
Du4 is located on the midline of the back, between the second and third lumbar vertebrae. It lies directly on the spinous process line.
Mingmen is traditionally used to strengthen kidney energy, support vitality (Qi), and assist the back.
This point should be used with caution, especially in weakened or older horses. When in doubt, always consult a professional.
Location Du4 is located precisely on the dorsal midline, in the interspace between L2 and L3, at the level of the spinous process. Palpation of the lumbar vertebrae is essential for accurate localization.
Functions Du4 tonifies kidney yang, strengthens essence (Jing), and is used in cases of weakness, back pain, and reproductive disorders. It influences Mingmen fire and vital energy.
Safety For Du4, special caution is required in horses with back problems or systemic diseases. Avoid deep stimulation to prevent irritation of the spinal cord.
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 11 Small Intestine 11 (SI11) – Tianzong, Heavenly Gathering
SI11 can help release tension in the shoulder area and improve mobility. It is also used for local pain relief.
Small Intestine 11 (SI11), also known as Tianzong, is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support the shoulder and back muscles.
SI11 is located in the scapular region, approximately in the middle of the scapula, along the line connecting the upper and lower borders.
SI11 can help release tension in the shoulder area and improve mobility. It is also used for local pain relief.
If you are unsure or if the horse shows significant pain, always consult a professional. This point is close to sensitive structures.
Location SI11 is located in the supraspinatus fossa, about one third of the way from the scapular spine to the caudal border of the scapula.
Functions SI11 is used to treat shoulder stiffness, myalgia, local pain, and to support blood circulation in the scapular region.
Safety Caution with deep needling to avoid injury to underlying muscles and nerves. Do not use in cases of local infection or trauma.