KI22 Step Corridor

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

KI22 (Bùláng, “Step Corridor”) is an acupuncture point on the Kidney Channel Meridian. It is located on the chest, in the fifth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (Ren Mai). This is 1.6 cun inferior to KI23 (Shenfeng). It descends rebellious Qi, unbinds the chest, and alleviates cough and wheezing.

Location

On the chest, in the fifth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (Ren Mai). This is 1.6 cun inferior to KI23 (Shenfeng).

Needling

Oblique or transverse insertion, 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep or perpendicular insertion carries a high risk of causing a pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Descends rebellious Qi, unbinds the chest, and alleviates cough and wheezing..

Indications

Chest and hypochondriac fullness, diaphragm obstruction, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, cough with rebellion of Qi, inability to raise the arms, wheezing, vomiting, poor appetite, nasal obstruction..

Clinical notes

Bulang is a significant local point on the upper chest for respiratory disorders characterized by a sense of fullness, obstruction, and rebellious Qi. Its indications for chest fullness, cough, and wheezing make it useful in treating conditions like asthma and bronchitis. The classical combination with Andu (KI21) highlights its function in regulating Qi flow across the diaphragm to relieve breathlessness.

On the Kidney Channel channel

KI22 is one of 27 points on the Kidney Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

KI18KI19KI20KI21KI23KI24KI25KI26

Frequently asked questions

Where is KI22 located?

KI22 (Bùláng) is located on the chest, in the fifth intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (Ren Mai). This is 1.6 cun inferior to KI23 (Shenfeng).

What is KI22 used for?

KI22 descends rebellious Qi, unbinds the chest, and alleviates cough and wheezing. Common clinical indications include chest and hypochondriac fullness, diaphragm obstruction, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, cough with rebellion of Qi, inability to raise the arms, wheezing, vomiting, poor appetite, nasal obstruction.

How is KI22 needled?

Oblique or transverse insertion, 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep or perpendicular insertion carries a high risk of causing a pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall. Deep needling is contraindicated due to the risk of puncturing the lung or heart.

Which meridian is KI22 on?

KI22 is a point on the Kidney Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyīn Shènjīng).

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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.