BL53 Baohuang

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

BL53 (Baohuang, “Baohuang”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the lower back, level with the space below the spinous process of the second sacral vertebra (S2), 3 cun lateral to the midline. It regulates the Bladder, clears Damp-Heat from the Lower Jiao, strengthens the lumbar spine and legs.

Location

On the lower back, level with the space below the spinous process of the second sacral vertebra (S2), 3 cun lateral to the midline.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun.

TCM functions

Regulates the Bladder, clears Damp-Heat from the Lower Jiao, strengthens the lumbar spine and legs..

Indications

Abdominal fullness, abdominal pain, abdominal hardness and masses, constipation, difficult urination, lumbar pain, lumbar pain with inability to bend or extend, lumbar pain with stiffness, pain radiating to the genitals, pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the sacrum, prolapse of the rectum, urinary retention, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, borborygmus, diarrhea, edema, genital pain, hernia, leg weakness, sciatica, stiffness and pain of the lumbar spine, swelling of the genitals..

Clinical notes

Baohuang is a key local point for disorders of the sacrum and lumbar spine, particularly for pain, stiffness, and sciatica. As the outer line point corresponding to the Bladder's Back-Shu point, it strongly influences the Bladder organ, making it effective for a wide range of urinary issues like retention, incontinence, and painful urination. It is also used for digestive problems such as abdominal distention, constipation, and borborygmus, reflecting the Bladder channel's connection to the Lower Jiao.

On the Bladder channel

BL53 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL53 located?

BL53 (Baohuang) is located on the lower back, level with the space below the spinous process of the second sacral vertebra (S2), 3 cun lateral to the midline.

What is BL53 used for?

BL53 regulates the Bladder, clears Damp-Heat from the Lower Jiao, strengthens the lumbar spine and legs. Common clinical indications include abdominal fullness, abdominal pain, abdominal hardness and masses, constipation, difficult urination, lumbar pain, lumbar pain with inability to bend or extend, lumbar pain with stiffness, pain radiating to the genitals, pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the sacrum, prolapse of the rectum, urinary retention, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, borborygmus, diarrhea, edema, genital pain, hernia, leg weakness, sciatica, stiffness and pain of the lumbar spine, swelling of the genitals.

How is BL53 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun.

Which meridian is BL53 on?

BL53 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.