BL48 Yanggang

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

BL48 (Yanggang, “Yanggang”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the back, 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10), level with BL19 Danshu. It clears Damp-Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder, harmonizes the Middle Jiao, regulates the intestines, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the back, 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10), level with BL19 Danshu.

Needling

Oblique insertion medially, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution: Deep perpendicular or oblique lateral insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax.

TCM functions

Clears Damp-Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder, harmonizes the Middle Jiao, regulates the intestines, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Abdominal fullness and distention, borborygmus, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loose stools, reddish and difficult urination, body heat, yellow eyes, jaundice, poor appetite, lassitude, indigestion..

Clinical notes

Yanggang is a key point for treating Damp-Heat affecting the Liver and Gallbladder system. It is particularly effective for digestive disorders presenting with abdominal distention, borborygmus, and diarrhea, especially when accompanied by signs of jaundice like yellow eyes. Its actions on the intestines also make it useful for regulating bowel movements and addressing urinary difficulty with heat signs.

On the Bladder channel

BL48 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL48 located?

BL48 (Yanggang) is located on the back, 3 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10), level with BL19 Danshu.

What is BL48 used for?

BL48 clears Damp-Heat from the Liver and Gallbladder, harmonizes the Middle Jiao, regulates the intestines, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include abdominal fullness and distention, borborygmus, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loose stools, reddish and difficult urination, body heat, yellow eyes, jaundice, poor appetite, lassitude, indigestion.

How is BL48 needled?

Oblique insertion medially, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution: Deep perpendicular or oblique lateral insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax.

Which meridian is BL48 on?

BL48 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.