Distal Limb — Distal Sensitivity
BL 60 Bladder 60 (BL60) – Kunlun, Kunlun Mountains
Bl60 can help relieve pain in the back, hip, and leg. It is also used to promote overall mobility.
Bladder 60, also known as Kunlun, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s hind limb. It is often used to support mobility and relieve pain.
Bl60 is located in the depression between the lateral fetlock bone and the calcaneus, just above the fetlock joint on the hind limb.
Bl60 can help relieve pain in the back, hip, and leg. It is also used to promote overall mobility.
Bl60 should be treated with care, as it is close to tendons and joints. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Bl60 is located in the depression between the lateral malleolus of the tibia and the tuber calcanei, at the level of the lateral suspensory ligament.
Functions Bl60 is used to treat lumbago, sciatica, hindlimb stiffness, lameness, and to support parturition. It affects the bladder, kidney, and back meridians.
Safety Bl60 is a powerful point with systemic effects and should be used cautiously in cases of pregnancy or weakness. Be mindful of its proximity to tendons and the fetlock joint.
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 41 Gallbladder 41 (GB41) – Zulinqi, Foot Governor of Tears
GB41 can help release tension in the musculoskeletal system and is often used for lameness or issues in the hip and pelvic area.
GB41, also known as Zulinqi, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's foot and belongs to the Gallbladder meridian. It is often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
GB41 is located on the outside of the hind limb, in the depression between the fourth and fifth metatarsal bones, approximately at the level of the fetlock joint.
GB41 can help release tension in the musculoskeletal system and is often used for lameness or issues in the hip and pelvic area.
Treatment of this point should be done carefully, as it is close to sensitive structures. Use only under supervision or by an experienced professional.
Location GB41 is located distally on the lateral metatarsus, in the depression proximal to the head of the fourth metatarsal bone, lateral to the tendon of the lateral digital extensor muscle.
Functions GB41 is used to treat Gallbladder meridian disharmonies, lateral limb issues, headaches, and to promote Qi flow in the Gallbladder meridian.
Safety Caution with local lesions or inflammation; aseptic technique is mandatory. Do not use in cases of fractures or open wounds.
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 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.
Lung 9 (LU9) – Tai Yuan, Great Abyss
LU9 is used to support lung function, for cough, breathing difficulties, and to strengthen the immune system.
Lung 9 (LU9) – Tai Yuan is a key point on the lung meridian, often used to support the respiratory system and strengthen immunity in horses.
LU9 is located on the inside of the forelimb, just below the carpal joint, in a small depression next to the artery.
LU9 is used to support lung function, for cough, breathing difficulties, and to strengthen the immune system.
This point should be treated carefully as it is located near important blood vessels. Always use clean equipment and ensure the horse is calm.
Location LU9 is located medially on the forelimb, distal to the carpal joint, in the depression between the tendon and the radial artery.
Functions LU9 tonifies lung Qi and Yin, regulates the vessels, and is used for chronic cough, dyspnea, weakness, and circulatory disorders.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as LU9 is in close proximity to the radial artery. Strict aseptic technique and precise localization are essential.
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.
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 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.
YQ 2 Yang Heel 2 – Pucan, BL61
Pucan is used to relieve pain in the hock, improve mobility, and promote local circulation.
Yang Qiao 2 – Pucan (BL61) is an acupuncture point on the horse’s hind limb, commonly used to support mobility and relieve pain.
BL61 is located on the lateral aspect of the hind limb, just below the hock, in a depression between the calcaneus and the lateral ligament.
Pucan is used to relieve pain in the hock, improve mobility, and promote local circulation.
This point should only be treated by experienced individuals to avoid injury or discomfort to the horse.
Location BL61 is located distal and slightly caudal to BL60, in the depression between the tuber calcanei and the lateral collateral ligament of the hock.
Functions BL61 is used to treat lameness, local pain, and restricted movement in the hock region, as well as to support the Yang Qiao Mai.
Safety When needling BL61, be aware of the proximity to tendons and ligaments; aseptic technique is essential to prevent infection.