Bladder Meridian
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BL-56
Needle Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Lower Leg — Posterior
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.
Main Actions
- Removes Obstructions from the Channel and relaxes Sinews
- 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
Commentary
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.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (针灸甲乙经 - Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): First recorded the point Chengjin and its location on the posterior leg in the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle.
Zhenjiu Dacheng (针灸大成 - Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Documents indications including hemorrhoids and cramping pain of the lower back and legs (痔疾，腰腿拘急疼痛).
Classical Combination: "配委中治下肢挛痛" (Combine with Weizhong BL-40 to treat spasmodic pain of the lower limbs).
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.
Caution
This point is located in the thick belly of the gastrocnemius muscle, which can be quite sensitive. Needling here may cause significant aching or cramping sensations. Avoid overly strong stimulation as excessive manipulation may cause muscle spasm or discomfort. The area may be tender in patients with calf strain or overuse.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically or obliquely 1–1.5 cun.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Soreness, distension, and heaviness in the calf muscle, often radiating upward toward the popliteal fossa or downward toward the heel. Strong needle sensation is common due to the thick muscular tissue of the gastrocnemius.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
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