BL29 Mid-Spine Shu

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

BL29 (Zhōng Lǚ Shū, “Mid-Spine Shu”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. BL29 is on the sacrum, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the third sacral foramen. It strengthens the lower back and legs, and regulates the Lower Jiao.

Location

BL29 is on the sacrum, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the third 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

Strengthens the lower back and legs, and regulates the Lower Jiao.

Indications

Lower back pain, leg pain, sciatica, abdominal distention.

Clinical notes

BL29 is primarily used for strengthening the lower back and legs, particularly for pain, weakness, and stiffness in the lumbar region and sacrum. It is effective for chronic lower back pain, sciatica, and conditions affecting the hips and legs. Its action also extends to regulating the Lower Jiao, making it useful for certain gynecological and urinary issues when combined with other points.

On the Bladder channel

BL29 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL29 located?

BL29 is on the sacrum, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the third sacral foramen.

What is BL29 used for?

BL29 strengthens the lower back and legs, and regulates the Lower Jiao. Common clinical indications include lower back pain, leg pain, sciatica, abdominal distention.

How is BL29 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 BL29 on?

BL29 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.