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Dazhu (BL-11), “Great Shuttle”, on the upper back, is the Influential (Hui-meeting) point of the bones. It benefits the bones and joints, relieves neck and back stiffness and dispels wind.
Location
On the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra (T1).
Anatomy
On the trapezius and rhomboid, over the erector spinae; the medial branches of the posterior intercostal arteries; the medial cutaneous branches of the dorsal rami of the thoracic nerves.
Actions & Functions
- Benefits the bones and joints (Influential point of the bones)
- Relieves neck and back stiffness
- Dispels wind and releases the exterior
Indications
Stiffness and pain of the neck, shoulder and back, bone and joint disorders, cough and fever, and common cold.
Needling
0.5-0.7 cun, oblique insertion towards the spine.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With GB-39 for bone disorders; with BL-12 for the common cold.
Classical Text References
The Influential point of the bones; a meeting point with the Small Intestine channel.
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep perpendicular insertion risks pneumothorax; needle obliquely towards the spine.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.