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Dushu (BL-16), “Governing Shu”, on the back, regulates the Heart, unbinds the chest and harmonises the diaphragm.
Location
On the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6).
Anatomy
On the trapezius and latissimus dorsi, over the erector spinae; the posterior intercostal artery; the dorsal rami of the thoracic nerves.
Actions & Functions
- Regulates the Heart and unbinds the chest
- Harmonises the diaphragm and Stomach
Indications
Cardiac pain, oppression of the chest, hiccup, and abdominal pain.
Needling
0.5-0.7 cun, oblique insertion towards the spine.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With BL-15 for cardiac disorders.
Classical Text References
A point of the Bladder channel on the back.
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep perpendicular insertion risks pneumothorax; needle obliquely.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.