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BL-23 Shenshu (腎俞) — Kidney Shu
Depth
00.5–1 cun3.0
Oblique insertion
Precautions
Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of puncturing the kidney.
Location (classical)
In the lumbar region, 1.5 cun lateral to the inferior border of the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (L2). At the level of the navel.
How to find it (practical)
In ventral or lateral decubitus, locate the point 1.5 cun lateral to Ming Men (GV-4), which lies opposite the umbilical scar.
Anatomy
Thoracolumbar fascia, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae, and quadratus lumborum muscles. Innervated by the dorsal branches of the L1 and L2 lumbar nerves.
Needling
Perpendicular or oblique insertion toward the spine, 0.5–1.0 cun.
Etymology
Shen (肾), Kidney; Shu (俞), point. Place where the Qi of the Shen (Kidney) reaches the back.
CLASSICAL SOURCELing Shu
Clinical Relations
Point Pairs
Back-Shu/Front-MuGB-25 Jingmen
Classical Combinations
Kidney deficiency, low back pain, tinnitus, sexual dysfunction
Adjacent Points on the Meridian