BL13 Lung Shu

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

BL13 (Fèi Shū, “Lung Shu”) is the Back-Shu of Lung point of the Bladder Meridian. Found 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the third thoracic vertebra (T3), at the level of the third intercostal space. It regulates Lung Qi, clears heat, and resolves phlegm.

Location

Found 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the third thoracic vertebra (T3), at the level of the third 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

Regulates Lung Qi, clears heat, and resolves phlegm.

Indications

Cough, asthma, bronchitis, chest pain, fever, night sweats.

Back-Shu of Lung

Clinical notes

BL13, the Back-Shu point of the Lung, is the most important point for regulating Lung Qi and treating all Lung-related disorders, both excess and deficient. It is widely used for cough, asthma, shortness of breath, and susceptibility to colds. It excels at clearing Lung heat and resolving phlegm, and is often paired with LU7 for respiratory conditions.

On the Bladder channel

BL13 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL13 located?

Found 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the third thoracic vertebra (T3), at the level of the third intercostal space.

What is BL13 used for?

BL13 regulates Lung Qi, clears heat, and resolves phlegm. Common clinical indications include cough, asthma, bronchitis, chest pain, fever, night sweats.

How is BL13 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 BL13 on?

BL13 is a point on the Bladder Meridian (Zú Tài Yáng Páng Guāng Jīng).

Interactive body mapConditions & evidenceFind an acupuncturistTCM glossary
⚠️ 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.