GB39 Suspended Bell

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

GB39 (Xuanzhong, “Suspended Bell”) is the Hui-Meeting of Marrow point of the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the lateral aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun superior to the tip of the external malleolus, in the depression between the posterior border of the fibula and the tendons of peroneus longus and brevis. It strengthens the bones and marrow, clears heat, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the lateral aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun superior to the tip of the external malleolus, in the depression between the posterior border of the fibula and the tendons of peroneus longus and brevis.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the fibula.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion.

TCM functions

Strengthens the bones and marrow, clears heat, and alleviates pain.

Indications

Neck stiffness, hemiplegia, leg pain, atrophy of lower limbs, sprained ankle.

Hui-Meeting of MarrowMeeting point of the three leg Yang meridians

Clinical notes

GB39 is the Hui-Meeting point of Marrow, making it indispensable for conditions related to bones, marrow, and the brain. It is renowned for strengthening bones and sinews, treating atrophy and weakness of the lower limbs, and addressing neck stiffness. It is classically used with BL11, another Hui-Meeting point, to nourish marrow and strengthen bones, particularly for conditions like osteoporosis or post-stroke sequelae.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB39 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB39 located?

GB39 (Xuanzhong) is located on the lateral aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun superior to the tip of the external malleolus, in the depression between the posterior border of the fibula and the tendons of peroneus longus and brevis.

What is GB39 used for?

GB39 strengthens the bones and marrow, clears heat, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include neck stiffness, hemiplegia, leg pain, atrophy of lower limbs, sprained ankle.

How is GB39 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the fibula. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion.

Which meridian is GB39 on?

GB39 is a point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyáng Dǎnjīng).

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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.