Bladder Meridian
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BL-65
Wood-Mu
Stream-Shu Point
Needle Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Foot — Dorsum, Toes
Location
On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, proximal to the head of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.
Main Actions
- Subdues Rebellious Qi from the head
- Clears Heat
- Expels Exterior Wind
Indications
Commentary
Shugu BL-65 has various functions.
First of all, it removes obstructions from the Bladder Channel, especially if the pain is on the neck, back, thigh and lumber area.
It subdues Rebellious Qi from the head, thus it treat symptoms such as headache, dizziness and occipital headache.
It clears Heat from the Bladder Channel and it is especially effective in treating redness and pain in the eyes or the inner canthus.
Finally, it expels Exterior Wind, particularly in the beginning stage of a Wind-Cold attack. This is at the Greater Yang Stage of the Six Stage Theory.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot), Chapter 2 'Ben Shu':
"注于束骨" (Flows into Shugu) — Establishes BL-65 as the Shu-Stream point where Qi begins to pour more substantially through the channel.
Bai Zheng Fu (Ode of a Hundred Symptoms):
"项强多恶风，束骨相连于天柱" — For neck stiffness with aversion to wind, combine Shugu with Tianzhu (BL-10).
Xun Jing Kao Xue Bian (Circulation of Channels and Examination of Points):
Notes indications for swelling and pain of the metatarsal joint, and heat in the sole of the foot.
How to Locate
Palpate along the bony structures on the lateral aspect of the foot, a prominent bony landmark can be felt approximately at the midpoint of the foot. This is the tuberosity of the 5th metatarsal bone. Palpate from there towards the toes, a further bony structure can be felt, which is the head of the 5th metatarsal bone. Locate Shugu BL-65 in a depression directly proximal to the head of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the 'red and white' skin.
Caution
The point is located in an area with relatively thin tissue over bone. Apply gentle insertion technique and avoid excessive manipulation. The lateral aspect of the foot can be sensitive in some patients. Ensure proper angle to avoid periosteal contact with the fifth metatarsal bone.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.3–0.5 cun.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distending or aching sensation at the point, which may radiate along the lateral aspect of the foot. Some patients experience a propagating sensation traveling proximally along the Bladder channel toward the ankle or lower leg.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
Recommended
Gua Sha
Questionable
Five Element & Transporting Classification
Five Phase
Wood-Mu
Transporting Type
Stream-Shu Point
Mother-Child Role
Child (Reducing)
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