Zhonglüshu Point (BL-29 / Middle Muscles Shu, also known as Zhonglüneishu)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Zhonglüshu (BL-29 / Middle Muscles Shu). Learn its benefits for lumbar and spinal pain, abdominal pain, diabetes, and hernia – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Abdominal pain, lumbar and spinal stiffness with pain, diabetes, hernia, dysentery, and lumbosacral pain.
Precise Location
In the sacral region, level with the 3rd posterior sacral foramen, 1.5 cun lateral to the sacral median crest.
Location Method
At the intersection of the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spines with the spine (approximately at the level of the 4th lumbar vertebra), move 4 vertebral levels downward to the level of the 3rd sacral foramen – the point is 2 finger-widths (approximately 1.5 cun) lateral to the midline.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Zhonglüshu with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat abdominal pain and lumbar and spinal stiffness with pain. Therapeutic actions: Strengthens the lumbar region and spine, regulates qi and relieves pain, regulates the lower jiao.
Compatibility
Lumbar and spinal stiffness with pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Weizhong (BL-40). Abdominal pain and dysentery: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25), Zusanli (ST-36), and Shangjuxu (ST-37). Hernia: Combine with Dadun (LR-1), Guilai (ST-29), and Sanyinjiao (SP-6). Diabetes: Combine with Yishu (EX-B3), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Taixi (KI-3).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian and is the Back Transporting Point where bladder meridian qi is transported to the sacral region. It strengthens the lumbar region and spine, regulates qi and relieves pain, and regulates the lower jiao. It is a commonly used point for treating lumbosacral and abdominal disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. “Zhong” means middle; “Lü” refers to the muscles on both sides of the spine; “Shu” means point of transport. Located in the middle of the paravertebral muscles in the sacral region, where meridian qi is transported – hence the name Zhonglüshu (Middle Muscles Shu). It is also known as “Zhonglüneishu.”
Contraindications
Located in the sacral region, needling should not be too deep – generally 0.8–1.2 cun vertically to avoid injury to internal tissues. Moxibustion is permissible.
