BL57 (Chengshan / Mountain Support) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
BL57 Chengshan is a ma danyang heavenly star point point of the Bladder channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | BL57 — Chengshan (Mountain Support) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Bladder — Foot Taiyang |
| Classification | Ma Danyang Heavenly Star point |
| Region | Posterior calf |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | At the central posterior calf hollow where the gastrocnemius bellies taper towards the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon. |
Location of BL57 Chengshan
At the central posterior calf hollow where the gastrocnemius bellies taper towards the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon.
Landmark sequence
- Support the lower leg with the posterior calf accessible.
- Ask for gentle plantar flexion if appropriate.
- Identify the angled depression below the gastrocnemius bellies.
- Palpate the muscle–tendon junction, using the landmarks rather than a fixed centimetre distance.
Where a B-cun measurement is given, use the patient’s proportional body measurement. It is not a fixed centimetre distance or a universal number of the practitioner’s finger breadths. Confirm the relevant landmarks by palpation before deciding on a technique.
Distinguishing nearby points
BL57 is at the inferior convergence of the gastrocnemius bellies. BL56 is more proximal between the bellies; BL58 is lateral and distal.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Relaxes the sinews
- Activates the channel and eases pain
- Benefits the calf and heel
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for calf cramping, heel or lower-limb discomfort, and as a distal point in lumbar channel strategies. Haemorrhoidal presentations also appear in traditional descriptions.
These descriptions express traditional theory. They are not claims that this individual point has been proven to prevent or cure a medical condition. A symptom or channel label alone is insufficient to select a treatment.
Planning a point combination
Consider the treatment principle, local versus distal selection and the patient’s complete presentation. Related Project Lotus guides for comparison include BL40, BL60. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
The calf contains superficial veins and deeper tibial neurovascular structures. Never needle a calf where thrombosis, infection or an acute tear is suspected.
- Inspect the skin and assess local tissue, circulation and sensation. Do not needle through infected, ulcerated, inflamed or otherwise unsuitable tissue.
- Review relevant surgery, injuries, implants, bleeding risk, medication, pregnancy and previous adverse reactions.
- Use sterile single-use needles, appropriate infection control and safe sharps disposal. Obtain informed consent and document the treatment.
- Choose angle, depth and stimulation from anatomical assessment and accredited training. This guide gives no universal insertion depth. Stop and reassess unexpected sharp pain, neurological symptoms or a concerning response.
When medical assessment takes priority
One-sided calf swelling, warmth and pain requires urgent assessment for possible thrombosis. Associated breathlessness or chest pain is an emergency. Rectal bleeding requires appropriate investigation.
Moxibustion
Moxa is not an automatic addition. Consider the traditional pattern, local anatomy and the practitioner’s training. Where heat is appropriate, assess sensation, skin condition, ventilation and the patient’s ability to report discomfort; supervise continuously and prevent burns.
Research note
Evidence concerning an acupuncture treatment or a multi-point protocol cannot be assigned automatically to this point alone. This guide does not claim an independently established clinical effect for BL57. Traditional functions and clinical evidence should be discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is this point bilateral?
Yes. The surface landmarks apply on both sides. Treatment laterality depends on assessment and the chosen clinical strategy.
Can the image replace palpation?
No. The image shows the landmark relationship schematically. Body proportions, tendon visibility and tissue depth vary, so trained examination remains essential.
Is this a self-needling guide?
No. It is an educational reference for qualified practitioners and does not replace professional training or medical assessment.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Browse our Acupuncture Point Guides and professional acupuncture needles.
Professional note: Educational material for qualified acupuncture practitioners. Individual assessment, consent, safe technique and appropriate referral remain the practitioner’s responsibility.
References: WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations, updated reprint 2009 (entry BL57); CEIMEC point atlas (cross-check; WHO takes precedence where descriptions differ); Joel Penner, American Dragon: traditional point reference; NCCIH: acupuncture evidence and safety. Checked 5 October 2026.
