BL16 Dū Shū means 'Governing Shu-point'

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

BL16 (Dū Shū, “Dū Shū means 'Governing Shu-point'”) is the Back-Shu of Du Meridian point of the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6). It warms and regulates the Heart, harmonizes the Stomach, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6).

Needling

Oblique insertion towards the spine, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular or oblique-lateral insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Warms and regulates the Heart, harmonizes the Stomach, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Heart pain from cold, abdominal pain, borborygmus (rumbling intestines), rebellious qi..

Back-Shu of Du Meridian

Clinical notes

Classically, this point was primarily indicated for pain, specifically heart pain due to cold and abdominal pain with borborygmus. Its name, 'Governing Shu', and its location below the Heart Shu (BL15) suggest a role in regulating the Heart and its connection to the Governing Vessel. Although some sources forbid needling, moxibustion was permitted and used for conditions of cold and deficiency affecting the middle and upper jiao.

On the Bladder channel

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

BL12BL13BL14BL15BL17BL18BL19BL20

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL16 located?

BL16 (Dū Shū) is located on the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6).

What is BL16 used for?

BL16 warms and regulates the Heart, harmonizes the Stomach, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include heart pain from cold, abdominal pain, borborygmus (rumbling intestines), rebellious qi.

How is BL16 needled?

Oblique insertion towards the spine, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular or oblique-lateral insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall. The Ming Tang Jing, as cited in the Zi Sheng Jing, explicitly forbids needling this point ('禁針'). The Zhen Jiu Da Cheng also omits any needling instructions, only providing moxibustion details.

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.