Bladder Meridian
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BL-66
Water-Shui
Spring-Ying Point
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.2–0.3 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Toes, Foot — Dorsum
Location
In the depression distal and inferior to the 5th metatarsophalangeal joint, at the lateral border of the foot.
Main Actions
- Clears Heat
- Ascends the Clear Qi to the head
Indications
Commentary
Zutonggu BL-66 is the Spring-Ying point, which makes it very effective in clearing Heat in the Bladder Channel, particularly in the eyes, nose and the urinary system. Typical manifestations include difficult or burning urination, scanty dark urine, red eyes and nosebleed.
Furthermore, it ascends the clear Qi to the head and expels the Dampness, which is responsible for symptoms such as heaviness or dizziness of the head.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (The Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): "Zutonggu treats headache, neck rigidity, nosebleed, and blurred vision."
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot): The Ying-Spring points are where "the qi gurgles" and are indicated for Heat conditions and changes in complexion.
Nan Jing (Classic of Difficulties): "Ying points treat diseases of Heat in the body."
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 Zutonggu BL-66 distal to the 5th metatarsal bone, in a depression distal and inferior to the 5th metatarsophalangeal joint
Caution
This point is typically painful to needle. Use gentle technique and appropriate needle gauge. Located on thin skin over bone, so needle carefully to avoid periosteum. The shallow depth of 0.2-0.3 cun should be respected to avoid discomfort.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.2–0.3 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.3–0.5 cun. Caution: Painful point.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness at the needling site. The sensation may radiate along the lateral aspect of the foot toward the toes or proximally toward the ankle.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
Five Element & Transporting Classification
Five Phase
Water-Shui
Transporting Type
Spring-Ying Point
Mother-Child Role
Child (Reducing)
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