Bladder Channel

Qihaishu BL-24

Chinese: 气海俞

Pinyin: Qì Hǎi Shū

Location

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd lumber vertebra (L3). 

How to locate

First identify the Tuffier's line which connects the highest points of the iliac crest. The spinous process of the 4th lumber vertebra (L4) mostly falls on this line. 

Then identify the spinous process of the 3rd lumber vertebra (L3) by counting one up. Locate Qihai BL-24 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of L3. Xiajishu Ex-B-5 is at the same level but 3 cun lateral to the lower border of L3. 

Points located between Fufen BL-41 and Zhibian BL-54 are in the lateral branch of the Bladder Channel, while these between Fengmen BL-12 and Baihuanshu BL-30 are in the medial branch. Ex-B-5 does not belong to the Bladder Channel, but it is located at the place the lateral branch passes. 

Main actions

  1. Strengthens the lower back and legs
  2. Invigorates Blood in the Lower Burner

Indications

Leg pain Leukorrhea Haemorrhoids Bloody stools Painful period Lower back pain Uterus bleeding Lower back stiffness Irregular menstruation

Needling

Vertically 0.5–1.5 cun

Commentary for Qihaishu BL-24

Despite that Qihaishu BL-24 is not a major point of the Bladder Channel, it is widely used as a local point for acute or chronic lower back pain or stiffness. It also eases leg pain due to Painful Obstruction Syndrome. 

Furthermore, it invigorates Blood and removes Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner. Therefore, it is indicated for menstruation issues or blood in the stools.