Bladder Channel

Chengjin BL-56

Chinese: 承筋

Pinyin: Chéng Jīn

Location

5 cun inferior to Weizhong BL-40 which is the midpoint of the popliteal crease. In the center of the belly of gastrocnemius muscle, midway between Heyang BL-55 and Chengshan BL-57. 

How to locate

First identify Weizhong BL-40 in the middle of the popliteal crease. From there, measure 5 cun in an inferior direction and locate Chengjin BL-56 in a depression between the medial and lateral bellies of gastrocnemius muscle. 

Main actions

  1. Removes Obstructions from the Channel and relaxes Sinews
  2. Benefits the foot and heel

Indications

Leg pain Rhinitis Back pain Weak legs Hot soles Foot pain Heel pain Head heat Dizziness Headaches Urticaria Lumbar pain Bloody nose Haemorrhoids Constipation Clonic spasm Axilla swelling Back contraction Foot contraction Lumbar contraction Incontinence of urine Incontinence of stools

Needling

Vertically or obliquely 1–1.5 cun. 

Commentary for Chengjin BL-56

Chengjin BL-56 is not a major point, even thought it has influence over the whole Bladder Channel, especially on the head. Typical manifestations include dizziness, headache, heat in the head, nosebleed and rhinitis. 

The name 'Support the Sinew' indicates its ability of removing Obstructions and relaxing Sinews. It is able to treat pain and contraction of muscles and sinews, especially in the lumbar region and calf. 

Finally, BL-56 and its neighboring point Chengshan BL-57 are the two major proximal points in treating pain in foot and heel.