BL60 Kunlun Mountains

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

BL60 (Kunlun, “Kunlun Mountains”) is the Jing-River (Fire) point of the Bladder Meridian. BL60 is located in the depression between the external malleolus and the Achilles tendon, level with the tip of the external malleolus. It clears heat, alleviates pain, and relaxes the sinews.

Location

BL60 is located in the depression between the external malleolus and the Achilles tendon, level with the tip of the external malleolus.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: posterior tibial artery and vein.

⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk).
⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the tibial artery).

TCM functions

Clears heat, alleviates pain, and relaxes the sinews.

Indications

Headache, neck rigidity, low back pain, sciatica, ankle pain, difficult labor.

Jing-River (Fire)

Clinical notes

BL60 is a powerful Jing-River (Fire) point, renowned for its analgesic effects, particularly for lumbar pain, sciatica, and headaches, especially occipital. As a Jing-River point, it's effective for cough and asthma, and also for joint pain and stiffness along the Bladder meridian. It is often paired with KI3 (Taixi) to strengthen the lower back and treat heel pain.

On the Bladder channel

BL60 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL60 located?

BL60 is located in the depression between the external malleolus and the Achilles tendon, level with the tip of the external malleolus.

What is BL60 used for?

BL60 clears heat, alleviates pain, and relaxes the sinews. Common clinical indications include headache, neck rigidity, low back pain, sciatica, ankle pain, difficult labor.

How is BL60 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: posterior tibial artery and vein. Caution: ⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk). ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the tibial artery).

Which meridian is BL60 on?

BL60 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.