What are the acupoints on the back?
Jan 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, there are acupoints on the back such as Dazhui (GV14), Fengfu (GV16), Feishu (BL13), Xinshu (BL15), and Ganshu (BL18). It is important to maintain good lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep, all of which help enhance the body's immunity and reduce the occurrence of diseases. If discomfort arises, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment.
Generally speaking, there are several acupoints on the back, including the Dazhui (GV14), Fengfu (GV16), Feishu (BL13), Xinshu (BL15), and Ganshu (BL18) points. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Dazhui Point (GV14)
The Dazhui point is located below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra along the midline of the back. It is the meeting point of the Governor Vessel (Du Meridian) and the three Yang meridians of the hands and feet. This point functions to invigorate Yang energy, regulate Qi and blood circulation, dispel wind-cold, and is commonly used to treat colds, fever, headache, and neck stiffness.
2. Fengfu Point (GV16)
The Fengfu point is located in the posterior neck region, below the occipital bone, in the depression between the two trapezius muscles. It is considered a gateway for pathogenic wind to invade the body. Massaging this point can help dispel wind pathogens, relieve headache, dizziness, and insomnia, and also benefits cerebral blood circulation.
3. Feishu Point (BL13)
The Feishu point is located below the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline of the back. It is closely related to lung function. Stimulating this point can regulate pulmonary function and is commonly used to treat respiratory diseases such as cough, asthma, pneumonia, and tuberculosis.
4. Xinshu Point (BL15)
The Xinshu point is located below the spinous process of the fifth thoracic vertebra, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline of the back. It serves as the reflex zone of the heart on the back. Massaging or acupuncture at this point can regulate heart function and improve blood circulation. It is commonly used to treat cardiovascular and neurological disorders such as palpitations, chest pain, insomnia, and forgetfulness.
5. Ganshu Point (BL18)
The Ganshu point is located below the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline of the back. It is closely associated with liver function. Stimulating this point can regulate liver function and promote detoxification. It is commonly used to treat liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, jaundice, and flank pain, as well as emotional disorders such as mood swings and irritability.
Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is important in daily life, including balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep. These practices help enhance immunity and reduce the risk of illness.
