BL37 Gate of Abundance

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

BL37 (Yinmen, “Gate of Abundance”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the posterior thigh, 6 cun inferior to BL36 (Chengfu), on the line connecting BL36 and BL40 (Weizhong). It relaxes sinews, invigorates channels, alleviates pain, treats sciatica.

Location

On the posterior thigh, 6 cun inferior to BL36 (Chengfu), on the line connecting BL36 and BL40 (Weizhong).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1.0-2.0 cun. Avoid the sciatic nerve.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the sciatic nerve).

TCM functions

Relaxes sinews, invigorates channels, alleviates pain, treats sciatica.

Indications

Sciatica, low back pain, pain and numbness in the thigh and popliteal fossa.

Clinical notes

Yinmen is a significant point for addressing pain along the posterior aspect of the thigh and lower back, particularly sciatica. It is frequently used for conditions like piriformis syndrome and hamstring strain due to its location and ability to relax sinews and invigorate channels. Clinically, it is often needled deeply to affect the sciatic nerve pathway, providing relief for radiating pain down the leg.

On the Bladder channel

BL37 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL37 located?

BL37 (Yinmen) is located on the posterior thigh, 6 cun inferior to BL36 (Chengfu), on the line connecting BL36 and BL40 (Weizhong).

What is BL37 used for?

BL37 relaxes sinews, invigorates channels, alleviates pain, treats sciatica. Common clinical indications include sciatica, low back pain, pain and numbness in the thigh and popliteal fossa.

How is BL37 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1.0-2.0 cun. Avoid the sciatic nerve. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the sciatic nerve).

Which meridian is BL37 on?

BL37 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.