Forelimb & Shoulder — Shoulder Pain
BL 11 Bladder 11 (BL11) – Dazhu, Great Shuttle
BL11 is traditionally used to strengthen bones, joints, and to support the immune system.
Bladder 11 (BL11), also known as Dazhu, is an important acupuncture point located on the horse's back. It is often used to support the musculoskeletal system.
BL11 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the withers, approximately at the line of the first rib.
BL11 is traditionally used to strengthen bones, joints, and to support the immune system.
This point should be used with care to avoid stressing or injuring the horse. If in doubt, always consult a professional.
Location BL11 is located 1.5 Cun lateral to the dorsal midline at the level of the second thoracic vertebra (T2), usually at the level of the first rib.
Functions BL11 is the Hui-Meeting point for bones, influences bone growth, joints, and is used for musculoskeletal and immunological issues.
Safety When treating BL11, be aware of its proximity to the spine and lungs. Avoid deep needling to prevent pneumothorax.
BL 54 Bladder 54 (BL54) – Mid-calf (Chengshan region)
Bl54 is traditionally used to relieve pain and tension in the hindquarters and to support mobility.
Bladder 54 (Bl54) is an important acupuncture point located on the middle lower leg of the horse, often used to support the hindquarters.
Bl54 is located on the middle lower leg, in the Chengshan area, roughly halfway between the hock and the fetlock, on the back of the leg.
Bl54 is traditionally used to relieve pain and tension in the hindquarters and to support mobility.
This point should be treated with care as it is close to important structures. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Bl54 is located along the bladder meridian, approximately halfway between the tuber calcanei and the fetlock joint, lateral to the superficial digital flexor tendon.
Functions Bl54 is used for treating lumbosacral issues, sciatica, hindlimb lameness, and to promote local circulation.
Safety When needling Bl54, be aware of the proximity to tendons and vessels; aseptic technique and a calm horse are essential.
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.
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 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.
Large Intestine 10 (LI10) – Shousanli, Arm Three Miles
LI10 is used to support muscle function, in cases of lameness, and to promote local blood circulation.
Large Intestine 10 (LI10), also known as Shousanli, is an important acupuncture point on the horse's forelimb, commonly used to support muscle function and mobility.
LI10 is located on the forelimb, about two thumb-widths below LI11, on the lateral side of the leg, in the area of the extensor carpi radialis muscle.
LI10 is used to support muscle function, in cases of lameness, and to promote local blood circulation.
Treatment of this point should be done carefully, as improper use may cause discomfort. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location LI10 is located on the Large Intestine Yangming meridian, 2 cun distal to LI11, between the extensor carpi radialis and the common digital extensor muscles.
Functions LI10 tonifies Qi and blood, supports local musculature, and is used for paralysis, muscle weakness, and to strengthen the immune system.
Safety Special caution is required in sensitive or reactive horses. Deep stimulation may elicit local reactions; aseptic technique is mandatory.
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 15 (LI15) – Jianyu, Shoulder Bone
LI15 is used to relieve pain and movement restrictions in the shoulder area and to promote blood circulation.
Large Intestine 15 (LI15) – Jianyu is an important acupuncture point located at the horse’s shoulder, commonly used for shoulder issues.
LI15 is located on the outer edge of the shoulder, in a depression in front of the scapula, at the level of the shoulder joint.
LI15 is used to relieve pain and movement restrictions in the shoulder area and to promote blood circulation.
This point should be treated carefully, as the area is sensitive and close to important structures.
Location LI15 is located cranial and distal to the acromion, in the depression between the deltoid and supraspinatus muscles, at the level of the greater tubercle of the humerus.
Functions LI15 is used for treating shoulder stiffness, lameness, local inflammation, and to promote Qi and blood circulation in the shoulder region.
Safety Caution with deep needling to avoid damaging the shoulder joint, surrounding nerves, and vessels. Strict aseptic technique is essential.
Large Intestine 16 (LI16) – Jugu, Great Bone
This point can help relieve pain and tension in the shoulder area and improve mobility.
Large Intestine 16 (LI16) – Jugu is an acupuncture point in horses, often used to support shoulder issues.
LI16 is located at the junction of the scapula and humerus, just in front of the shoulder joint, in a small depression.
This point can help relieve pain and tension in the shoulder area and improve mobility.
This point should be treated carefully as it is close to sensitive structures. Always consult a professional if in doubt.
Location LI16 is located cranial and distal to the acromion, in the depression between the trapezius and deltoid muscles, just in front of the shoulder joint.
Functions LI16 is used to treat shoulder stiffness, local pain, forelimb paralysis, and to promote Qi flow in the scapular region.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as LI16 is close to the shoulder joint and important nerve structures. Aseptic technique and precise localization are essential.
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 1 (LU1) – Zhong Fu, Central Treasury
LU1 is used to strengthen the lungs, relieve coughing, and make breathing easier.
Lung 1 (LU1), also known as Zhong Fu, is an important point on the lung meridian and is often used to support the respiratory system in horses.
LU1 is located on the chest, just below the scapula, in the first intercostal space.
LU1 is used to strengthen the lungs, relieve coughing, and make breathing easier.
LU1 should only be treated by experienced individuals, as it is located near the chest and sensitive structures.
Location LU1 is located in the first intercostal space, medial to the shoulder, at the junction of the lateral and ventral thorax, usually palpable in a depression.
Functions LU1 is used to treat lung diseases, acute and chronic respiratory disorders, thoracic pain, and to strengthen Wei Qi.
Safety Caution is required when needling LU1 due to its proximity to the lungs and major vessels, increasing the risk of pneumothorax or hematoma.
Lung 2 (LU2) – Yun Men, Cloud Gate
LU2 is used to support lung function, for cough and respiratory issues. It can also help with chest pain.
Lung 2 (LU2), also known as Yun Men or Cloud Gate, is an important acupuncture point located at the front of the horse’s shoulder. It is often used to support respiratory function.
LU2 is located on the front of the shoulder, slightly above and in front of LU1, in a depression near the sternum.
LU2 is used to support lung function, for cough and respiratory issues. It can also help with chest pain.
LU2 is close to sensitive structures such as the lungs and major blood vessels. Careful application is necessary to avoid injury.
Location LU2 is located in the upper lateral thoracic area, in the depression medial to the greater tubercle of the humerus, approximately at the level of the first intercostal space.
Functions LU2 is used for treating lung disorders, thoracic pain, dyspnea, and local muscular tension. It acts to open the thoracic region and regulate Qi flow.
Safety Caution is required when needling LU2, as it is close to the pleural cavity and major vessels. Too deep insertion may cause pneumothorax.
SI 10 Small Intestine 10 (SI10) – Naoshu, Upper Arm Shu
SI10 is used to relieve tension and pain in the shoulder area and to promote mobility.
Small Intestine 10 (SI10), also known as Naoshu or Arm Storage, is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support the shoulder area.
SI10 is located at the junction between the scapula and the upper arm, approximately at the level of the shoulder joint.
SI10 is used to relieve tension and pain in the shoulder area and to promote mobility.
This point should only be treated by trained individuals, as improper use may cause discomfort.
Location SI10 is located cranial and distal to the acromion, in a depression between the deltoid and supraspinatus muscles.
Functions SI10 is used to treat shoulder stiffness, local myalgia, and to support the shoulder joint; it influences local Qi and blood circulation.
Safety When needling SI10, be aware of the proximity to important nerves and vessels; aseptic technique is essential.
SI 11 Small Intestine 11 (SI11) – Tianzong, Heavenly Gathering
SI11 can help release tension in the shoulder area and improve mobility. It is also used for local pain relief.
Small Intestine 11 (SI11), also known as Tianzong, is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support the shoulder and back muscles.
SI11 is located in the scapular region, approximately in the middle of the scapula, along the line connecting the upper and lower borders.
SI11 can help release tension in the shoulder area and improve mobility. It is also used for local pain relief.
If you are unsure or if the horse shows significant pain, always consult a professional. This point is close to sensitive structures.
Location SI11 is located in the supraspinatus fossa, about one third of the way from the scapular spine to the caudal border of the scapula.
Functions SI11 is used to treat shoulder stiffness, myalgia, local pain, and to support blood circulation in the scapular region.
Safety Caution with deep needling to avoid injury to underlying muscles and nerves. Do not use in cases of local infection or trauma.
SI 12 Small Intestine 12 (SI12) – Bingfeng, Grasping the Wind
SI12 can help relieve tension and pain in the shoulder area and promote energy flow along the meridian.
Small Intestine 12 (SI12), also known as Bingfeng, is an acupuncture point commonly used for muscle pain or tension in the horse’s shoulder area.
SI12 is located in the scapular region, approximately at the highest point of the shoulder, slightly towards the back.
SI12 can help relieve tension and pain in the shoulder area and promote energy flow along the meridian.
This point should be treated carefully as it is close to important structures. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location SI12 is located in the dorsal scapular region, in the depression between the scapular spine and the upper border of the scapula, approximately at the level of the 2nd intercostal space.
Functions SI12 is used for treating myofascial pain, local muscle tension, and to support shoulder and thoracic issues. It can also be used for wind invasions and to harmonize the small intestine meridian.
Safety Caution is advised when needling, as SI12 is close to the scapula and brachial plexus. Avoid deep insertion to prevent injury to neurovascular structures.
SI 9 Small Intestine 9 (SI9) – Jianzhen, True Shoulder
SI9 is used to relieve pain and tension in the shoulder area and to improve mobility.
Small Intestine 9 (SI9), also known as Jianzhen or 'Upright Shoulder', is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used for shoulder issues.
SI9 is located at the junction of the scapula and the upper arm, about one hand’s width below the scapula, slightly towards the back.
SI9 is used to relieve pain and tension in the shoulder area and to improve mobility.
Treatment of this point should be done carefully to avoid injuring surrounding tissues. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location SI9 is located cranial to the insertion of the deltoid muscle, at the level of the greater tubercle of the humerus, in the soft tissue between the deltoid and triceps brachii muscles.
Functions SI9 is used to treat shoulder stiffness, local pain, forelimb paralysis, and to promote Qi flow in the scapular region.
Safety When needling SI9, be aware of the proximity to nerves and vessels. Avoid deep stimulation in cases of local inflammation or trauma.