BL27 Small Intestine Shu

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

BL27 (Xiǎo Cháng Shū, “Small Intestine Shu”) is the Back-Shu of Small Intestine point of the Bladder Meridian. BL27 is found on the sacrum, 1.5 cun lateral to the midpoint between the posterior superior iliac spines, at the level of the first sacral foramen. It regulates the Small Intestine, separates clear from turbid, and resolves dampness.

Location

BL27 is found on the sacrum, 1.5 cun lateral to the midpoint between the posterior superior iliac spines, at the level of the first sacral foramen.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun. Exercise caution to avoid deep insertion, especially in thin patients.

⚠ Reduce depth in thin patients — avoid deep perpendicular insertion.

TCM functions

Regulates the Small Intestine, separates clear from turbid, and resolves dampness.

Indications

Abdominal pain, diarrhea, dysentery, dysuria, lower back pain.

Back-Shu of Small Intestine

Clinical notes

As the Back-Shu point of the Small Intestine, BL27 is crucial for regulating the Small Intestine's function of separating clear from turbid, making it effective for digestive issues like abdominal distention, diarrhea, and dysentery. It is also used for urinary disorders, reflecting the Small Intestine's role in fluid metabolism. This point is often combined with CV4 (Guanyuan) to address chronic digestive and urinary imbalances.

On the Bladder channel

BL27 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL27 located?

BL27 is found on the sacrum, 1.5 cun lateral to the midpoint between the posterior superior iliac spines, at the level of the first sacral foramen.

What is BL27 used for?

BL27 regulates the Small Intestine, separates clear from turbid, and resolves dampness. Common clinical indications include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dysentery, dysuria, lower back pain.

How is BL27 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun. Exercise caution to avoid deep insertion, especially in thin patients. Caution: ⚠ Reduce depth in thin patients — avoid deep perpendicular insertion.

Which meridian is BL27 on?

BL27 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.