BL 36 — Chéng Fú (承扶) — Hold and Support
On this page
1. Overview
BL 36 — Chéng Fú (承扶) — is an acupuncture point on the Bladder meridian. Its English name, Hold and Support, 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
In the middle of the gluteal fold, midway between the ischial tuberosity and the greater trochanter.
3. Actions
- Activates the meridian and relieves buttock and sciatic pain
- Relaxes the sinews of the gluteal region
- Benefits the anus and treats haemorrhoids
4. Indications
- Sciatica — important local point in the gluteal region
- Buttock pain and piriformis syndrome
- Low back pain radiating to the posterior thigh
- Haemorrhoids
- Lower limb paralysis
5. Needling
Perpendicular insertion 1.5–2.5 cun.
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 36 is located in the gluteal fold and is the primary local point for the gluteal region along the Bladder channel. It is used in the treatment of sciatica where deep gluteal (piriformis) involvement is present, combined with GB 30, BL 40 and BL 60. Needling at this point can produce a strong propagated sensation down the posterior thigh confirming the sciatic nerve territory.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use BL 36 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Sciatica, Hip pain, Back pain. 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.
