Bladder meridian

BL-22 (Sānjiāoshù, 三焦俞) — Sanjiao Shu

Meridian
Bladder (BL)
Anatomical view
posterior
Point classification
Back-shu point of the Sanjiao.
Depth reference
0.5-1.0 cun perpendicular only after assessment of body build and upper-lumbar organ depth
Moxibustion
Applicable as non-scarring moxa
Reference aliases
BL22; Sanjiaoshu; 三焦俞; Sanjiao Shu

Anatomical location

In the lumbar region, level with the lower edge of the L1 spinous process and 1.5 body-cun from the posterior midline.

Traditional actions

Traditionally regulates fluid pathways, transforms dampness, and supports source qi.

Recorded indications

Primary: Reference uses include edema, difficult urination, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, and low-back pain.

Secondary: Secondary uses include nausea and leg weakness.

How to read this reference

AcuAtlas separates anatomical location, traditional classification, recorded actions, indications, insertion-depth references, and moxibustion notes because these fields answer different study questions. The location statement is the orientation anchor. The classification and actions describe traditional reference categories, while indications summarize how checked educational sources associate the point with established teaching material. They are not a recommendation to select or stimulate the point.

Depth and moxibustion entries are reproduced as bounded reference notes rather than procedural instructions. Individual anatomy, technique, angle, clinical setting, and local professional standards can change what is appropriate. Review the cited documents and supervised training material before using any technical field. The normalized map coordinate is included only to place the point on the matching AcuAtlas body plate; it is not a substitute for palpation or anatomical assessment.

Sources

References displayed on this page were recorded with the point dataset.

  1. WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region (2008) BL22, p. 110
  2. Acupuncture.com Point Locator - Urinary Bladder 22 English name, classification, indications, functions and needling
  3. TARA Acupuncture Knowledge Base BL 22: back-shu role, indications, method, moxibustion and upper-lumbar anatomy
  4. An Exploration of the Needling Depth in Acupuncture Sections 3.1.2-3.1.5, body-build and angle dependence for back points
  5. WHO Guidelines on Basic Training and Safety in Acupuncture Section II, 5.2, liver, spleen and kidney

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL-22 located?

In the lumbar region, level with the lower edge of the L1 spinous process and 1.5 body-cun from the posterior midline.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for BL-22?

Traditionally regulates fluid pathways, transforms dampness, and supports source qi. The dataset lists these primary indications: Reference uses include edema, difficult urination, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, and low-back pain. Secondary indications are recorded as: Secondary uses include nausea and leg weakness.

Is BL-22 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify BL-22 as one of its five mandatory pregnancy-caution points. That is not a declaration of safety. Pregnancy-related point selection requires individualized assessment by a qualified clinician.