BL36 Chengfu means 'Receiving Support'

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

BL36 (Chengfu, “Chengfu means 'Receiving Support'”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the posterior thigh, in the center of the transverse gluteal crease, inferior to the buttock. It strengthens the lumbar region and legs, resolves hemorrhoids, regulates urination and defecation.

Location

On the posterior thigh, in the center of the transverse gluteal crease, inferior to the buttock.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion, 1.5 to 2.5 cun. Caution should be exercised to avoid the sciatic nerve, which lies deep and slightly medial to the point.

TCM functions

Strengthens the lumbar region and legs, resolves hemorrhoids, regulates urination and defecation..

Indications

Hemorrhoids, chronic hemorrhoids with swelling of the buttocks, difficult defecation, difficult urination, pain from hemorrhoids, axillary swelling, fresh bleeding from hemorrhoids, cold in the uterus/bladder, swelling in the buttock region..

Clinical notes

Chengfu is a primary distal point for treating all types of hemorrhoids, especially when characterized by pain, swelling, and bleeding. Its location at the gluteal fold also makes it a key local point for sciatic pain radiating down the posterior leg and for weakness or motor impairment of the lower limb. The classical texts emphasize its role in addressing disorders of the anus and urination, linking the lower orifice to the Bladder channel's pathway.

On the Bladder channel

BL36 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL36 located?

BL36 (Chengfu) is located on the posterior thigh, in the center of the transverse gluteal crease, inferior to the buttock.

What is BL36 used for?

BL36 strengthens the lumbar region and legs, resolves hemorrhoids, regulates urination and defecation. Common clinical indications include hemorrhoids, chronic hemorrhoids with swelling of the buttocks, difficult defecation, difficult urination, pain from hemorrhoids, axillary swelling, fresh bleeding from hemorrhoids, cold in the uterus/bladder, swelling in the buttock region.

How is BL36 needled?

Perpendicular insertion, 1.5 to 2.5 cun. Caution should be exercised to avoid the sciatic nerve, which lies deep and slightly medial to the point.

Which meridian is BL36 on?

BL36 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.