Bladder Meridian
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BL-52
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Back — Lower (Lumbar)
Location
3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).
Main Actions
- Tonifies the Kidneys and the Essence
- Benefits urination
- Strengthens the back
- Strengthens the Will-power
Indications
Commentary
Zhishi BL-52 is at the same level as Shenshu BL-23, which is the Back-Transporting-Shu point of the Kidneys. Therefore it shares many functions as BL-23 and strengthens the effect when the two points are used together.
Most importantly, it tonifies the Kidneys and nourishes the Essence, which is stored in the Kidneys. In fact, its other name 'Jinggong' is literally translated as the palace of the Essence.
In case of Kidney Qi or Yang Deficiency, male patients tend to have sexual problems such as impotence, lack of sexual desire and premature ejaculation. While female patients are prone to infertility. Other typical manifestations include exhaustion, dizziness, tinnitus, backache or nocturnal emissions.
Secondly, BL-52 treats chronic lower back pain and sciatica by tonifying the Kidneys.
Thirdly, by tonifying the Kidney Qi, it regulates urination. It is indicated for dribbling or difficult urination as well as Oedema.
Finally, it is said to be effective in lifting Will-Power when the patients are under depression and lacking motivation. For this purpose, it is often used together with Shenshu BL-23 with Reducing Needling method.
Classical Sources
《针灸甲乙经》 (Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing - Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): First documented this point and its indications for treating Kidney-related disorders, urinary dysfunction, and lumbar pain.
《针灸大成》 (Zhenjiu Dacheng - Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Lists Zhishi for treating nocturnal emission, impotence, difficult urination, edema, and stiffness of the lumbar spine.
Name Etymology: 'Zhi' (志) means will or willpower - the spiritual aspect housed by the Kidneys. 'Shi' (室) means chamber or room. The name reflects that this point is where the Kidney's spirit (Zhi/willpower) resides. The alternative name 'Jinggong' (精宫) means 'Palace of Essence,' indicating its role in nourishing Kidney Jing.
How to Locate
First identify the Tuffier's line which connects the highest points of the iliac crest. The spinous process of the 4th lumber vertebra (L4) mostly falls on this line. Then identify the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2) by counting two up. Locate Zhishi BL-52 3 cun lateral to the lower border of L2. Shenshu BL-23 is at the same level but 1.5 cun lateral to L2. Points located between Fufen BL-41 and Zhibian BL-54 are in the lateral branch of the Bladder Channel, while these between Fengmen BL-12 and Baihuanshu BL-30 are in the medial branch.
Caution
This point lies directly over the kidney area. Deep perpendicular needling carries a risk of injuring the kidney organ. Oblique needling (0.5-0.8 cun) is recommended for safety. Extra caution is needed in thin patients where the distance to the kidney is reduced. Always palpate the area before needling and avoid deep insertion medially. During pregnancy, use with caution due to its strong effect on the Kidney system.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically or obliquely 0.5–1 cun. Caution: Kidneys.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness at the point, with possible radiation of sensation toward the buttocks or hip region. Some patients may experience a deep ache spreading through the lower back area.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
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