BL11 Great Shuttle

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

BL11 (Dà Zhù, “Great Shuttle”) is the Hui-Meeting of Bone point of the Bladder Meridian. Situated 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the first thoracic vertebra (T1), at the level of the first intercostal space. It dispels wind, clears heat, and strengthens bones and joints.

Location

Situated 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the first thoracic vertebra (T1), at the level of the first intercostal space.

Needling

Puncture obliquely 0.5-0.8 cun. Caution: Pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Dispels wind, clears heat, and strengthens bones and joints.

Indications

Neck rigidity, back pain, fever, cough, asthma, bone disorders.

Hui-Meeting of BoneMeeting point of BL & SI & TE & GB

Clinical notes

BL11, the Hui-Meeting point of Bone, is preeminent for strengthening bones and joints, making it essential for conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis, and bone pain. As a meeting point of multiple meridians, it also effectively dispels wind and clears heat, particularly from the upper back and neck. It is often paired with GB39, the Hui-Meeting point of Marrow, for bone and marrow issues.

On the Bladder channel

BL11 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL11 located?

Situated 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the first thoracic vertebra (T1), at the level of the first intercostal space.

What is BL11 used for?

BL11 dispels wind, clears heat, and strengthens bones and joints. Common clinical indications include neck rigidity, back pain, fever, cough, asthma, bone disorders.

How is BL11 needled?

Puncture obliquely 0.5-0.8 cun. Caution: Pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

Which meridian is BL11 on?

BL11 is a point on the Bladder Meridian (Zú Tài Yáng Páng Guāng Jīng).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.