BL-29 - Mid-Spine Shu
中膂俞 - Zhōng lǚ shū
Point Region: Lower back
BL-29 Zhonglushu, meaning 'Mid-Spine Shu,' is a point of deep, penetrating warmth for the lower back. Located on the sacrum, it is a master point for relieving lumbar stiffness and pain, especially when it is caused by 'cold' or stagnation. This point helps to disperse cold and bring a sense of comforting warmth to the body's foundation.
Think of Zhonglushu as a sunbeam on a cold winter day, bringing warmth and circulation to a stiff and achy lower back. It's particularly effective for chronic lower back pain that feels better with heat and worse with cold. On an emotional level, it can help to thaw emotional coldness or a sense of being 'frozen' in our lives.
By dispersing cold and invigorating the lumbar region, BL-29 restores a sense of ease and flexibility. It's a point that reminds us that our true power comes from a warm and open core.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: 1.5 cun lateral to the third posterior sacral foramen (S3).
How to Locate:
- Find the third small depression in your tailbone, below the second one
- Move about one and a half finger-widths to the side from the center
- Press into the muscle to find a tender spot - this is BL-29
Primary Functions
Musculoskeletal System
- Strengthens lumbar spine
- Relieves lower back pain and stiffness
- Treats sacroiliac joint disorders
Digestive System
- Treats diarrhea and intestinal disorders
- Supports lower digestive function
Urinary & Kidney System
- Supports bladder and urinary function
- Treats urogenital disorders
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Diarrhea
- Hernia
- Sciatica
- Lower back stiffness
- Pelvic pain
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
BL-29 Protocols
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Important Precautions
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