Behaviour — Restlessness
BL 15 Bladder 15 (BL15) – Xinshu, Heart Shu
BL15 is traditionally used to support heart function, and in cases of restlessness, anxiety, or circulatory issues.
Bladder 15 (BL15), also known as Xinshu, is an important acupuncture point on the bladder meridian, traditionally associated with the heart and its functions.
BL15 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the 5th thoracic vertebra, approximately three finger-widths lateral to the spinous process.
BL15 is traditionally used to support heart function, and in cases of restlessness, anxiety, or circulatory issues.
Treatment of this point should only be performed by trained individuals, as it is located near sensitive structures. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location BL15 is located 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 5th thoracic vertebra, within the muscle area of the longissimus dorsi.
Functions BL15 tonifies and regulates heart Qi, calms the Shen (spirit), and is used for heart Qi deficiency, arrhythmias, and emotional disturbances.
Safety Caution with deep needling to avoid pneumothorax. Do not use in cases of local infection or skin disease.
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.
GV 20 Governing Vessel 20 (GV20) – Baihui, Hundred Meetings
Du20 can help reduce stress, promote awareness, and support the central nervous system.
Governing Vessel 20 (Du20), also known as Baihui or 'Hundred Meetings', is an important acupuncture point located on the horse’s head. It is often used to promote overall well-being and support mental clarity.
Du20 is located on the midline of the head, at the highest point between the horse’s ears.
Du20 can help reduce stress, promote awareness, and support the central nervous system.
Stimulation of Du20 should be done carefully, as the point is located on the skull. Do not apply strong pressure and do not use needles without proper training.
Location Du20 is located on the dorsal midline of the skull, at the intersection with the line connecting the tips of the ears, at the highest point of the head.
Functions Du20 is used to calm the mind, in neurological disorders, to promote Qi flow in the head region, and to stabilize the central nervous system.
Safety When needling Du20, be aware of the minimal tissue thickness over the skull. Aseptic technique and careful needle placement are essential to avoid complications.
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.