BL29 Middle Spine Shu

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

BL29 (Zhōng Lǚ Shū, “Middle Spine Shu”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the third sacral vertebra (S3). This corresponds to the classical location below the 20th vertebra, in the prominent muscle beside the spine. It strengthens the lumbar spine and kidneys, regulates the intestines, and dispels cold and dampness.

Location

On the lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the third sacral vertebra (S3). This corresponds to the classical location below the 20th vertebra, in the prominent muscle beside the spine.

Needling

Perpendicular or slightly oblique insertion towards the midline, 1.0 to 1.5 cun in depth.

TCM functions

Strengthens the lumbar spine and kidneys, regulates the intestines, and dispels cold and dampness..

Indications

Lumbar pain, pain along the spine, pain radiating from the nape to this point, kidney deficiency, consumptive thirst (diabetes), inability to sweat, inability to bend forward or backward, abdominal distention, pain in the ribs and flanks, intestinal cold, red and white dysentery, hernia pain, cold-heat convulsions with arching of the back (opisthotonos), axillary contraction, lumbar and spinal hernia pain..

Clinical notes

Zhonglüshu is a key local point for stiffness and pain in the lower back and sacrum, particularly when movement is restricted. Its classical indications for kidney deficiency, consumptive thirst, and dysentery suggest a capacity to fortify the lower jiao and regulate kidney and intestinal functions. It is especially useful for conditions involving cold, such as intestinal cold with dysentery or cold-type hernia pain.

On the Bladder channel

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

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL29 located?

BL29 (Zhōng Lǚ Shū) is located on the lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the third sacral vertebra (S3). This corresponds to the classical location below the 20th vertebra, in the prominent muscle beside the spine.

What is BL29 used for?

BL29 strengthens the lumbar spine and kidneys, regulates the intestines, and dispels cold and dampness. Common clinical indications include lumbar pain, pain along the spine, pain radiating from the nape to this point, kidney deficiency, consumptive thirst (diabetes), inability to sweat, inability to bend forward or backward, abdominal distention, pain in the ribs and flanks, intestinal cold, red and white dysentery, hernia pain, cold-heat convulsions with arching of the back (opisthotonos), axillary contraction, lumbar and spinal hernia pain.

How is BL29 needled?

Perpendicular or slightly oblique insertion towards the midline, 1.0 to 1.5 cun in depth.

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.