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Shangliao (BL-31), “Upper Bone-Hole”, is the first of the eight liao (sacral foramina) points. It benefits the lower burner, regulates menstruation and urination and strengthens the lumbosacral region.
Location
On the sacrum, in the first posterior sacral foramen (S1), between the posterior superior iliac spine and the midline.
Anatomy
Over the first posterior sacral foramen; the lateral sacral artery; the dorsal ramus of the first sacral nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Benefits the lower burner and the genitals
- Regulates menstruation and urination
- Strengthens the lumbosacral region
Indications
Irregular menstruation, abnormal vaginal discharge, difficult urination, lumbosacral pain, and (in labour) to promote contractions.
Needling
1.0-1.5 cun, perpendicular insertion into the foramen.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With BL-32 and REN-4 for gynaecological disorders.
Classical Text References
One of the eight liao points of the sacrum.
Cautions & Contraindications
Caution in pregnancy except at term.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.