BL 10 — Tiān Zhù (天柱) — Celestial Pillar

On this page

1. Overview
2. Location
3. Actions
4. Indications
5. Needling
6. Clinical notes
7. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

BL 10 — Tiān Zhù (天柱) — is an acupuncture point on the Bladder meridian. Its English name, Celestial Pillar, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used regularly in acupuncture practice for a range of conditions.

I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience, practising at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.

2. Location

1.3 cun lateral to GV 15, within the posterior hairline on the lateral border of the trapezius muscle.

3. Actions

1. Expels Wind and relieves occipital pain and neck stiffness
2. Important local point for the occiput and cervical region
3. Clears the brain and calms the Mind
4. Benefits the eyes and nasal passages

4. Indications

1. Occipital headache and neck stiffness
2. Cervical spondylosis and whiplash
3. Nasal congestion and loss of smell
4. Shoulder and upper back pain
5. Visual disturbance from occipital tension

5. Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5–0.8 cun. Do not needle deeply or superiorly — the medulla oblongata lies above.

Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of in a clinical sharps container immediately after treatment.

6. Clinical notes

BL 10 is one of the Sea of Qi points and a key local point for the occiput and cervical region. Combined with GB 20 and GV 16 it forms the standard prescription for occipital headache, neck stiffness and cervicogenic disorders. Its proximity to the brainstem requires careful perpendicular needling — never angled superiorly.

7. Treatment at my clinic

I use BL 10 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Neck pain, Headaches, Migraines. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.