Patterns / Disharmonies — Effusion
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 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 39 Bladder 39 (BL39) – Popliteal crease center (Weizhong)
Bl39 is traditionally used to support bladder and kidney function and to relieve hindquarter issues.
Bladder 39 (Bl39), also known as Weizhong, is located in the center of the horse’s popliteal fossa and is an important acupuncture point for the health of the hindquarters.
Bl39 is located in the center of the popliteal fossa, between the tendons of the hind limb.
Bl39 is traditionally used to support bladder and kidney function and to relieve hindquarter issues.
Bl39 should be used with care, as the area is sensitive. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Bl39 is located in the center of the popliteal fossa, between the biceps femoris (lateral) and semitendinosus (medial) muscles, at the level of the popliteal fossa.
Functions Bl39 is used for treating urinary disorders, lumbar and hindquarter issues, and to promote urination. It affects the Bladder’s divergent channel.
Safety When treating Bl39, be aware of the proximity to important nerves and vessels. Excessive needle depth may cause 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.
KI 7 Kidney 7 (KI7) – Fuliu, Returning Current
This point is used to strengthen kidney energy, regulate water balance, and assist with swelling or sweating.
Kidney 7 (KI7), also known as Fuliu or Returning Current, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s hind limb. It is often used to support kidney function and regulate water balance.
KI7 is located on the hind limb, about two thumb-widths above KI3, just behind the tibia. Look for a small depression on the inside of the leg.
This point is used to strengthen kidney energy, regulate water balance, and assist with swelling or sweating.
Treatment of this point should only be performed by experienced individuals, as improper use may cause discomfort. Ensure the horse is calm during the procedure.
Location KI7 is located on the medial aspect of the hind limb, cranial to the Achilles tendon insertion, 2 cun proximal to KI3, in a distinct depression between the tibia and the tendon.
Functions KI7 tonifies kidney Qi, regulates urination, treats edema and sweating disorders, and is used for hind limb weakness.
Safety Caution is advised in horses with sensitive hind limbs or acute lameness. Aseptic technique and calm restraint are essential to avoid stress and complications.
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 7 (LU7) – Lie Que, Broken Sequence
LU7 is used to support the lungs, for cough, respiratory diseases, and to strengthen the immune system. It can also help with skin issues.
Lung 7 (LU7), also known as Lie Que, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb. It is often used to support the respiratory system and strengthen immunity.
LU7 is located on the forelimb, about 1.5 cun above the carpus, slightly in front of the splint bone. It is often palpable as a small depression.
LU7 is used to support the lungs, for cough, respiratory diseases, and to strengthen the immune system. It can also help with skin issues.
LU7 should only be treated by trained individuals, as improper use can cause pain or injury. Carefully observe the horse during and after treatment.
Location LU7 is located proximal and medial to the styloid process of the radius, about 1.5 cun proximal to the carpus, in the groove between the tendon of the abductor pollicis longus and the radius.
Functions LU7 opens the Ren Mai, deepens respiration, treats wind-cold, enhances defensive Qi, and is used for cough, asthma, nasal discharge, and skin disorders.
Safety Caution with local lesions or infections. Do not use in cases of fractures or acute inflammation in the area. Maintain aseptic technique.
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 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.