Back — Withers Tension
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 14 Bladder 14 (BL14) – Jueyinshu, Jueyin Shu
Bl14 is used to support the cardiovascular system, in cases of emotional stress, and to promote liver function.
Bladder 14 (Bl14), also known as Jueyinshu, is an important acupuncture point located on the horse's back. It is often used to support heart and liver functions.
Bl14 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra, about a thumb's width lateral to the spinous processes.
Bl14 is used to support the cardiovascular system, in cases of emotional stress, and to promote liver function.
This point should only be treated by trained individuals, as it is close to sensitive structures.
Location Bl14 is located 3 cun lateral to the dorsal midline, at the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4).
Functions Bl14 is the back-Shu point of the pericardium and is used to treat cardiac, thoracic, and hepatic disorders, as well as emotional disturbances.
Safety Caution is required when needling, as Bl14 is close to the thorax; deep insertion may cause pneumothorax.
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 16 Bladder 16 (BL16) – T6 paraspinal
BL16 is traditionally used to support the lungs, help with coughing, and strengthen the immune system.
Bladder 16 (BL16) is an acupuncture point located on the horse’s back along the bladder meridian. It is often used to support the respiratory system and address issues in the chest area.
BL16 is located on both sides of the spine at the level of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6), about one hand’s width lateral to the midline.
BL16 is traditionally used to support the lungs, help with coughing, and strengthen the immune system.
Use BL16 with care, especially in horses with back problems or sensitivities. Always consult a professional if in doubt.
Location BL16 is located 3 cun lateral to the dorsal process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6), on the bladder meridian line, paraspinally.
Functions BL16 is the Shu point of the Du Mai, influences the diaphragm, and is used for thoracic disorders, dyspnea, coughing, and regulation of Qi flow.
Safety Exercise caution in horses with spinal pathologies or local lesions. Avoid deep needling to minimize the risk of 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 18 Bladder 18 (BL18) – Ganshu, Liver Shu
BL18 is traditionally used to support liver function, for eye issues, or muscle tension.
Bladder 18 (BL18), also known as Ganshu, is an important acupuncture point on the bladder meridian, closely related to liver function in horses.
BL18 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the 10th thoracic vertebra, about three finger-widths lateral to the midline.
BL18 is traditionally used to support liver function, for eye issues, or muscle tension.
This point should be treated with care as it is located near the ribs. Improper use may cause discomfort.
Location BL18 is located 3 cun lateral to the caudal end of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra, within the intercostal space.
Functions BL18 tonifies Liver Qi, moves blood, clears heat, and is used for Liver Qi stagnation, eye disorders, muscle tension, and emotional imbalances.
Safety When needling BL18, be mindful of the proximity to the pleura and ribs to avoid pneumothorax or hematoma.
BL 19 Bladder 19 (BL19) – T9 paraspinal
BL19 is traditionally used to support the liver, promote digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
Bladder 19 (BL19) is an important acupuncture point on the horse's back, often used to support liver function.
BL19 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9), about one hand's width lateral to the spinous processes.
BL19 is traditionally used to support the liver, promote digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
This point should be used with care to ensure the horse's well-being. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location BL19 is located 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of T9, in the paraspinal area, at the level of the Liver Shu point.
Functions BL19 is the Liver Shu point and is used to treat Liver Qi stagnation, digestive disorders, and to support detoxification functions.
Safety When needling BL19, pay attention to depth and direction to avoid injuring underlying structures. Do not use in cases of local inflammation or trauma.
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.
BL 22 Bladder 22 (BL22) – T12 paraspinal
BL22 is traditionally used to support the digestive organs and promote the flow of energy throughout the body.
Bladder 22 (BL22) is an important acupuncture point on the horse's back, often used to support digestion and metabolism.
BL22 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12), about a thumb's width lateral to the dorsal spinous processes.
BL22 is traditionally used to support the digestive organs and promote the flow of energy throughout the body.
This point should be used with care, as it is close to sensitive structures. Always consult a professional if in doubt.
Location BL22 is located 1.5 cun lateral to the caudal end of the dorsal spinous process of T12, in the intercostal space between T12 and T13.
Functions BL22 is the Shu point of the San Jiao (Triple Heater) and is used to regulate water metabolism, Qi flow, and to treat edema, digestive disorders, and metabolic issues.
Safety When needling BL22, special care must be taken to avoid injury to underlying organs and structures. Avoid deep needling, especially in 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 43 Bladder 43 (BL43) – Medial to scapula lower angle
Bl43 is traditionally used to strengthen the lungs, support the immune system, and treat exhaustion.
Bladder 43 (Bl43) is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support the immune system and in cases of chronic weakness.
Bl43 is located medial to the lower angle of the scapula, at the level of the 4th intercostal space, about three finger-widths lateral to the midline.
Bl43 is traditionally used to strengthen the lungs, support the immune system, and treat exhaustion.
This point should be treated with care as it is close to sensitive structures. Always consult a professional if in doubt.
Location Bl43 is located medial to the lower angle of the scapula, at the 4th intercostal space, approximately 3 cun lateral to the dorsal midline, on the bladder meridian line.
Functions Bl43 tonifies Qi and blood, strengthens the lungs, heart, and kidneys, supports the immune system, and is used in cases of chronic weakness, cough, and exhaustion.
Safety When needling Bl43, be aware of the proximity to the lungs and major blood vessels. Incorrect or too deep insertion can lead to complications.
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.
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.