BL-11 - Great Shuttle
大杼 - Dà zhù
Point Region: Back
BL-11 Dazhu, meaning 'Great Shuttle,' is a pivotal point that governs the health of the bones. As the influential point of the bones and a meeting point of the Small Intestine, Bladder, and Gallbladder meridians, it is the 'shuttle' that weaves together the body's skeletal and structural framework. This point is a master at strengthening the bones and dispersing pathogenic winds that can cause stiffness and pain.
Think of Dazhu as the master builder for your skeleton. It's a go-to point for any condition related to bone health, whether it's soreness, joint pain, or general stiffness. It's particularly useful for releasing the kind of deep-seated tension that accumulates in the neck and upper back from poor posture or old injuries.
By fortifying the body's structure and clearing away 'wind'—the unpredictable energy that causes shifting aches and pains—BL-11 helps to restore stability and ease of movement, making it a cornerstone for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal issues.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of T1 (first thoracic vertebra).
How to Locate:
- Feel for the prominent bone at the base of your neck (this is the first chest vertebra)
- Place your finger about one and a half finger-widths to the side of your spine at this level
- Press into the muscle to find a tender spot - this is BL-11
Primary Functions
Musculoskeletal System
- Strengthens bones and joints
- Treats spinal disorders
- Relieves back and shoulder pain
Immune & Energy System
- Boosts overall immunity
- Strengthens constitutional energy
- Supports bone marrow function
Nervous System
- Calms the nervous system
- Reduces stress and tension
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Shoulder blade pain
- Immune weakness
- Bone disorders
- Upper respiratory infections
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
BL-11 Protocols
N/A
Important Precautions
N/A