BL16 Governor Shu

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

BL16 (Dū Shū, “Governor Shu”) is the Back-Shu of Du Meridian point of the Bladder Meridian. Situated 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6), at the level of the sixth intercostal space. It regulates the Governing Vessel, dispels wind, and clears heat.

Location

Situated 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6), at the level of the sixth 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 the Governing Vessel, dispels wind, and clears heat.

Indications

Back pain, stiffness, fever, cough, asthma, epilepsy.

Back-Shu of Du Meridian

Clinical notes

BL16, the Back-Shu point of the Du Meridian, is unique in its ability to regulate the Governing Vessel, making it effective for conditions along the spine and those related to the brain and nervous system. It dispels wind and clears heat, particularly from the Du Mai, addressing symptoms like stiff neck, back pain, and fever. It is often used in conjunction with other Du Mai points for spinal issues.

On the Bladder channel

BL16 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL16 located?

Situated 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6), at the level of the sixth intercostal space.

What is BL16 used for?

BL16 regulates the Governing Vessel, dispels wind, and clears heat. Common clinical indications include back pain, stiffness, fever, cough, asthma, epilepsy.

How is BL16 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 BL16 on?

BL16 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.