Tack / Saddle & Bridle — Girth / Saddle Area Problems
BL 13 Bladder 13 (BL13) – Feishu, Lung Shu
Feishu is used to support breathing, strengthen the immune system, and help with respiratory disorders.
Bladder 13 (BL13), also known as Feishu, is an important acupuncture point for supporting lung function in horses.
BL13 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the third thoracic vertebra, about a hand’s width lateral to the midline.
Feishu is used to support breathing, strengthen the immune system, and help with respiratory disorders.
Treatment of this point should be performed carefully to avoid stressing or injuring the horse.
Location BL13 is located in the intercostal space at the level of the third thoracic vertebra, 1.5 cun lateral to the dorsal midline.
Functions BL13 tonifies Lung Qi, disperses Wind and Heat, and is used for cough, asthma, and immune deficiency.
Safety When needling BL13, pay attention to depth and direction to avoid pneumothorax.
BL 17 Bladder 17 (BL17) – T7 paraspinal
Bl17 is traditionally used to support blood formation, in cases of blood stagnation, and for general strengthening.
Bladder 17 (Bl17) is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s back, often used to support blood and energy circulation.
Bl17 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the seventh thoracic vertebra (T7), about one thumb’s width lateral to the dorsal spinous process.
Bl17 is traditionally used to support blood formation, in cases of blood stagnation, and for general strengthening.
This point should be treated carefully as it is close to the spine. Please use only under supervision or by an experienced professional.
Location Bl17 is located 3 cun lateral to the caudal end of the spinous process of T7, on the Bladder meridian, at the level of the intercostal space between T7 and T8.
Functions Bl17 is the influential point for blood, regulates blood movement, cools blood-heat, resolves blood stasis, and supports chronic conditions involving the blood.
Safety When needling Bl17, special care must be taken to avoid injury to paraspinal structures and the pleura.
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.
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.
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 24 Gallbladder 24 (GB24) – Lateral chest 7th ICS
GB24 may help strengthen the liver, support digestion, and relieve tension in the thoracic area.
Gallbladder 24 (GB24) is located on the lateral thorax in the 7th intercostal space. It is commonly used to support liver and gallbladder function.
GB24 is located on the lateral thorax, in the 7th intercostal space, approximately at the level of the elbow.
GB24 may help strengthen the liver, support digestion, and relieve tension in the thoracic area.
If you are unsure about the exact location or if there are existing thoracic issues, this point should only be treated under the guidance of an experienced therapist.
Location GB24 is found in the 7th intercostal space, at the junction of the middle and lower third of the thorax, at elbow level, palpable between the ribs.
Functions GB24 is the Mu point of the gallbladder, influences liver and gallbladder Qi, promotes Qi circulation in the hypochondrium, and supports cases of liver Qi stagnation.
Safety Caution in cases of rib fractures, thoracic trauma, or local inflammation. Avoid deep needling to prevent pneumothorax.
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.
SP 10 Spleen 10 (SP10) – Xuehai, Sea of Blood
SP10 is traditionally used to regulate blood, promote circulation, and assist with skin issues or blood stagnation.
SP10, also called Xuehai, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's thigh, known as the 'Sea of Blood'.
SP10 is located on the inside of the thigh, about one hand's width above the knee, in a depression near the muscle.
SP10 is traditionally used to regulate blood, promote circulation, and assist with skin issues or blood stagnation.
Use this point with care, as it is located near major blood vessels. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location SP10 is located on the Spleen meridian, medial thigh, in the depression between the sartorius and vastus medialis muscles, approximately 2 cun proximal to the medial border of the patella.
Functions SP10 tonifies and moves blood, cools blood in cases of heat, and supports treatment of eczema, urticaria, and gynecological bleeding disorders.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as SP10 is close to the femoral vein. Aseptic technique and precise localization are essential to avoid hematoma or vascular injury.
ST 18 Stomach 18 (ST18) – Sub-pectoral
This point is traditionally used to relieve chest pain, cough, and to support breathing.
The acupuncture point Stomach 18 (ST18), also known as 'Under the Chest', is located in the thoracic area and is often used to support breathing and the chest region.
ST18 is located on the lateral chest wall, at the level of the 5th rib, below the pectoral muscle.
This point is traditionally used to relieve chest pain, cough, and to support breathing.
ST18 is close to sensitive structures such as the lungs and heart. Use caution to avoid injury.
Location ST18 is located on the thoracic wall, at the 5th intercostal space, along the line connecting the elbow and the shoulder joint.
Functions ST18 is used for treating thoracic congestion, mastitis, cough, and dyspnea. It influences the lung and local Qi flow.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as ST18 is in close proximity to the pleura. Deep insertion may cause pneumothorax.
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.