BL49 Thought Abode

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

BL49 (Yishe, “Thought Abode”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the back, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra (T12). This point is located 1.5 cun lateral to BL21. It harmonizes the middle jiao, strengthens the spleen, resolves dampness.

Location

On the back, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra (T12). This point is located 1.5 cun lateral to BL21.

Needling

Oblique insertion 0.5-0.7 cun. Caution: pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Harmonizes the middle jiao, strengthens the spleen, resolves dampness.

Indications

Abdominal distention, borborygmus, vomiting, diarrhea, back pain.

Clinical notes

Yishe, 'Thought Abode,' is closely associated with the Spleen and its function of transformation and transportation. It is primarily used to harmonize the middle jiao, strengthen the Spleen, and resolve dampness, making it valuable for digestive disorders like abdominal distention, poor appetite, and loose stools. It can also address issues related to overthinking or worry affecting the Spleen. It is often paired with BL20 (Pishu) for robust Spleen tonification.

On the Bladder channel

BL49 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL49 located?

BL49 (Yishe) is located on the back, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra (T12). This point is located 1.5 cun lateral to BL21.

What is BL49 used for?

BL49 harmonizes the middle jiao, strengthens the spleen, resolves dampness. Common clinical indications include abdominal distention, borborygmus, vomiting, diarrhea, back pain.

How is BL49 needled?

Oblique insertion 0.5-0.7 cun. Caution: pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

Which meridian is BL49 on?

BL49 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.