Abdomen / Belly — Obstipation
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 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.
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 6 Conception Vessel 6 (CV6) – Qihai, Sea of Qi
Ren6 is used to strengthen vital energy (Qi), support the immune system, and assist in cases of weakness.
Ren6, also known as Qihai, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s lower abdomen, referred to as the 'Sea of Qi'. It plays a central role in the horse’s overall well-being and energy.
Ren6 is located on the midline of the abdomen, about 1.5 hand widths below the horse’s umbilicus.
Ren6 is used to strengthen vital energy (Qi), support the immune system, and assist in cases of weakness.
This point should be treated carefully as the area is sensitive. If unsure, always consult a professional.
Location Ren6 is located on the ventral midline, approximately 1.5 cun caudal to the umbilicus. Exact location may vary slightly depending on conformation.
Functions Ren6 tonifies Qi and Yang, strengthens Yuan Qi, and is commonly used in cases of chronic weakness, immune deficiency, and to support reproductive function.
Safety Deep palpation should be performed cautiously to avoid irritating intra-abdominal structures. Do not use in pregnant mares or with abdominal trauma.
Large Intestine 11 (LI11) – Quchi, Pool at the Crook
This point is traditionally used to support cases of fever, skin issues, and to promote mobility.
Large Intestine 11 (LI11), also known as Quchi, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's forelimb. It is commonly used to support various conditions.
LI11 is located on the lateral forelimb, in the depression at the junction of the elbow and the front of the leg.
This point is traditionally used to support cases of fever, skin issues, and to promote mobility.
Treatment of this point should only be performed by experienced individuals or under supervision, as improper use may cause discomfort.
Location LI11 is located at the lateral elbow, in the depression at the end of the elbow crease, cranial to the extensor carpi radialis muscle.
Functions LI11 clears heat, supports immunomodulation, has anti-inflammatory effects, and is used for dermatological, musculoskeletal, and febrile conditions.
Safety Caution with debilitated or highly sensitive horses; avoid deep or aggressive stimulation. Do not use in cases of local infection or open wounds.
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.
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.
SP 9 Spleen 9 (SP9) – Yinlingquan, Yin Mound Spring
SP9 is used to regulate fluid retention, strengthen the spleen, and support cases of lameness or swelling in the hind limb.
SP9, also known as Yinlingquan, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's hind limb, often used to support fluid balance and spleen function.
SP9 is located on the inside of the hind limb, just below the medial condyle of the tibia, in a small depression.
SP9 is used to regulate fluid retention, strengthen the spleen, and support cases of lameness or swelling in the hind limb.
This point should be treated with care, as it is located near important vessels. Only use under supervision or by an experienced professional.
Location SP9 is located in the depression distal and posterior to the medial tibial condyle, on the line connecting the medial femoral condyle and the medial malleolus.
Functions SP9 resolves dampness, promotes diuresis, strengthens the spleen, and is used for edema, lameness, fluid metabolism disorders, and spleen Qi deficiency.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as SP9 is close to the medial saphenous vein and other vessels. Aseptic technique and precise anatomical knowledge are essential.
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.
YQ 1 Yang Heel 1 – Shenmai, BL62
Shenmai is used to promote hind limb mobility, reduce restlessness, and support balance.
The Shenmai (BL62) point is located at the outer ankle of the horse and belongs to the Bladder meridian. It is often used to support mobility and calm the horse.
Shenmai (BL62) is located just below the outer ankle, in a small depression between the ankle and the calcaneus.
Shenmai is used to promote hind limb mobility, reduce restlessness, and support balance.
This point should be treated carefully as the area is sensitive. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location BL62 is located distal and slightly caudal to the tip of the lateral malleolus, in the depression between the lateral malleolus and the tuber calcanei.
Functions BL62 is used for treating hind limb lameness, neurological disorders, insomnia, and for harmonizing the Yang Qiao Mai.
Safety When needling BL62, be aware of the proximity to tendons and ligaments. Excessive or improper stimulation may cause local irritation.