BL23 Shenshu Dog Acupuncture Point
Shèn Shū 肾俞Professional veterinary acupuncture overview of BL23 Shenshu in dogs, including anatomical location, kidney support applications, classical functions, and safety notes.
| Chinese Name | 肾俞 |
| Pinyin | Shèn Shū |
| Meridian | Bladder Meridian (BL) |
| Anatomical Location | 1.5 cun lateral to GV4, below the L2 spinous process. |
| Main Indications | Nephritis, polyuria, infertility, lumbar pain, weakness in the hind limb region. |
| Classical Function | Back-Shu of Kidney; key point for lumbar and hind limb disorders. |
| Meridian Color | Bladder Meridian | Water | Black / Deep Blue |
Clinical Overview
In veterinary acupuncture practice, BL23 is one of the most important thoracolumbar back-shu points for dogs with kidney deficiency patterns and chronic lower back pain.
TCVM practitioners often include BL23 in protocols aimed at supporting Kidney qi, strengthening the lumbar region, and addressing urinary or reproductive imbalance patterns.
Veterinary Disclaimer
This educational content is not intended to replace professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Acupuncture and electroacupuncture should only be performed by a licensed veterinarian or certified veterinary acupuncturist.
BL23 Canine Acupuncture Point Placeholder
Use this area for the canine BL23 map or your future TCVM illustration.
Pinpoint Location
Anatomical Landmark
Locate the second lumbar vertebra and measure 1.5 cun laterally from the lower border of its spinous process. In canine anatomy, this is the standard landmark for BL23.
Primary Clinical Indications
- Nephritis: A classic kidney-support indication.
- Polyuria: Often referenced in urinary regulation protocols.
- Infertility: May be used in reproductive deficiency patterns.
- Lumbar pain: One of the key points for low back weakness and discomfort.
Recommended Point Pairings
In clinical veterinary acupuncture, BL23 is often paired with other kidney, lumbar, and hind-limb support points depending on presentation.
Frequently paired with BL52, KI3, ST36, and CV4 in deficiency-oriented protocols.
Often combined with BL25, BL40, GB30, and local lumbar points for mobility and strength support.
May be integrated into multimodal support strategies involving acupuncture, hydrotherapy, diet adjustment, and rehabilitation.
Modern Veterinary Interpretation
From a modern veterinary rehabilitation perspective, BL23 is positioned over the lumbar region associated with kidney-related regulation and lower back mechanics.
Integrative veterinarians may include this point within broader urinary, reproductive, and musculoskeletal care plans involving acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and medical management.
Safety & Needling Notes
Professional Veterinary Use
Because BL23 lies over the lumbar spine and deep paraspinal tissues, needling depth and angle should only be handled by trained veterinary professionals. Oblique or careful perpendicular technique is essential to reduce risk.
Gentle Acupressure Guidance
Pet owners exploring supportive acupressure should use only gentle pressure and discontinue immediately if pain, stress, or guarding occurs.
Editorial & Veterinary Review
This educational resource was prepared by the PetAcu editorial team using veterinary acupuncture references, TCVM educational materials, canine rehabilitation resources, and integrative veterinary literature.
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