Bladder Channel

Chengshan BL-57

Chinese: 承山

Pinyin: Chéng Shān

Location

Directly below the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle and between the two heads of the muscle, on the line connecting Weizhong BL-40 and Kunlun BL-60, about 8 cun below Weizhong BL-40. 

How to locate

First locate Weizhong BL-40 in the midpoint of the popliteal crease and Kunlun BL-60 in the depression between the external malleolus and Achilles tendon. 

Locate Chengshan BL-57 in the middle of these two reference point. 

Or palpate from Kunlun BL-60 in a superior direction until reaching the depression between the two bellies of the gastrocnemius muscle. 

Main actions

  1. Removes Obstructions from the Channel and relaxes Sinews
  2. Treats haemorrhoids

Indications

Sciatica Weak legs Haemorrhoids Lower back pain Rectum prolapse Haemorrhoid pain Calf muscle pain Sinew contracture Lower back stiffness Bleeding haemorrhoids Haemorrhoids swelling

Needling

Vertically or obliquely 1–1.5 cun

Commentary for Chengshan BL-57

Chengshan BL-57's functions are quit similar to Weizhong BL-40, in terms of removing obstructions from the Channel and relaxing sinews. It is mostly used as a distal point to treat lower back pain and sciatica. It is also useful for these patients who have difficulties to sit and stand for a long time. 

Furthermore, it treats haemorrhoids as well.