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Urinary Bladder 23, or UB23, Shenshu, is an important acupuncture point not only for the back but the entire body.
Table of Contents
UB 23 Acupuncture Point Location
UB 23 is located:
- 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of L2
- In the lumbar region
- At the same horizontal level as the second lumbar vertebra
Clinically, precision matters here.
You must carefully identify L2. Palpate the lumbar spinous processes methodically. Remember:
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- The spinal cord typically terminates around L1–L2 (conus medullaris).
- Needle insertion is perpendicular.
- Depth: typically around 1 cun in average adults.
From a safety standpoint, controlled depth and awareness of body habitus are essential.
Clinical Pairing: UB 23 + UB 25
UB 23 is frequently paired with UB 25 (Dachangshu).
- UB 23: level of L2
- UB 25: level of L4
- Both are 1.5 cun lateral to their respective spinous processes
Clinically use either UB 23 or UB 25 separately and occasionally will pair them.
TCM Functions of UB 23
UB 23 is the Back-Shu point of the Kidney.
Primary functions:
- Kidney Qi
- Kidney Yang
- Kidney Yin
- Benefits Essence (Jing)
- Strengthens lumbar region and knees
Because the Kidney governs:
- Bones
- Marrow
- Ears
- Reproduction
- Water metabolism
Conditions Treated (CAM, 1993 Edition)1
According to Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion:
- Nocturnal emission
- Impotence
- Enuresis
- Irregular menstruation
- Leukorrhea
- Low back pain
- Weakness of the knee
- Blurring of vision
- Dizziness
- Tinnitus
- Deafness
- Edema
- Asthma
- Diarrhea
- Cheng, X. (Ed.). (1993). Chinese acupuncture and moxibustion. Foreign Languages Press. ↩︎
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
