Abdomen / Belly — Mild Colic Tendency
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.
CV 12 Conception Vessel 12 (CV12) – Zhongwan, Middle Epigastrium
Ren12 is used to support stomach function, address digestive issues, and strengthen energy flow in the abdominal area.
Ren12, also known as Zhongwan, is an important acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel located in the horse’s stomach area. It is often used to support digestion.
Ren12 is located on the midline of the abdomen, about halfway between the end of the sternum and the horse’s navel.
Ren12 is used to support stomach function, address digestive issues, and strengthen energy flow in the abdominal area.
This point should be treated carefully as it is located in a sensitive area. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Ren12 is located on the linea alba, approximately 4 cun cranial to the umbilicus, between the xiphoid process and the umbilicus.
Functions Ren12 tonifies the Qi of the stomach and spleen, regulates the middle burner, and is used for dyspepsia, colic, vomiting, and weakness.
Safety Caution with deep palpation or needling to avoid injury to internal organs. Do not use if acute abdominal pathology is suspected.
CV 17 Conception Vessel 17 (CV17) – Shanzhong, Chest Center
This point is used to support breathing, relieve stress, and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
Conception Vessel 17 (Ren17), also known as Shanzhong, is located in the middle of the chest and is an important acupuncture point for breathing and emotional balance in horses.
Ren17 is located on the midline of the chest, approximately at the level of the fourth intercostal space, between the two forelimbs.
This point is used to support breathing, relieve stress, and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
This point should be used with care as it is located near the sternum. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Ren17 is located on the ventral midline, at the level of the fourth intercostal space, directly above the sternum, between the insertions of the pectoral muscles.
Functions Ren17 regulates thoracic Qi, supports lung function, calms the heart, and is used for dyspnea, cough, anxiety, and thoracic tension.
Safety Caution in horses with thoracic injuries or cardiac issues. Avoid deep stimulation to prevent thoracic injury.
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.
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.
PC 6 Pericardium 6 (PC6) – Neiguan, Inner Pass
Pe6 can help with restlessness, nausea, or heart issues. It is also used to promote relaxation.
Pericardium 6 (PC6), also known as Neiguan, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb. It is often used to support the cardiovascular system and for calming purposes.
Pe6 is located on the inside of the forelimb, about two thumb-widths above the carpus, between the tendons.
Pe6 can help with restlessness, nausea, or heart issues. It is also used to promote relaxation.
Use Pe6 with care, especially in very nervous or sensitive horses. Always consult a professional if you are unsure.
Location Pe6 is located on the medial aspect of the forelimb, between the tendons of the flexor carpi radialis and palmaris longus muscles, approximately 2 cun proximal to the carpus.
Functions Pe6 is used for treating cardiac arrhythmias, nausea, vomiting, stress, and for regulating Qi in the thoracic region.
Safety When needling Pe6, be aware of the proximity to tendons and vessels. Do not use this point in cases of local inflammation or injury.
SP 6 Spleen 6 (SP6) – Sanyinjiao, Three Yin Crossing
SP6 is traditionally used to support digestion, address urogenital issues, and promote overall energy flow.
The Spleen-Pancreas 6 (SP6), also known as Sanyinjiao, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s hind limb. It is often used to support health and well-being.
SP6 is located on the inside of the hind limb, about four finger-widths above the medial hock (ankle) bone, behind the tibia.
SP6 is traditionally used to support digestion, address urogenital issues, and promote overall energy flow.
Use SP6 with caution, especially in pregnant mares, as this point can induce contractions. Always consult a professional if in doubt.
Location SP6 is located on the medial aspect of the hind limb, at the intersection of the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians, approximately 3 cun proximal to the tip of the medial malleolus of the tibia.
Functions SP6 harmonizes the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney, promotes blood circulation, regulates the uterus, and is used for urogenital disorders, colic, and lameness.
Safety SP6 is contraindicated in pregnant mares due to its oxytocic effect. Adjust stimulation in cases of weakness or exhaustion.
ST 25 Stomach 25 (ST25) – Umbilical level
ST25 is traditionally used to regulate digestion, for colic and diarrhea. It can help support balance in the gastrointestinal tract.
Stomach 25 (ST25) is an important acupuncture point on the stomach meridian, located at the level of the navel. It is often used to support digestion and for gastrointestinal issues.
ST25 is located on both sides of the navel, about two finger-widths lateral to it. Locate the navel and gently palpate to find the correct spot.
ST25 is traditionally used to regulate digestion, for colic and diarrhea. It can help support balance in the gastrointestinal tract.
This point should only be treated by trained individuals, as it is close to sensitive structures. Always observe the horse’s reaction and avoid inserting the needle too deeply.
Location ST25 is located bilaterally to the navel, 2 Cun lateral to the midline at the level of the navel. Precise localization is achieved by palpating the abdominal wall.
Functions ST25 regulates Qi and blood in the abdomen, used for acute and chronic gastrointestinal disorders, constipation, diarrhea, and colic. It influences peristalsis and can help relax the abdominal musculature.
Safety Caution with deep needling, as the point is near the peritoneum. Use aseptic technique and calm handling to avoid complications.
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.