BL60 (Kunlun / Kunlun Mountains) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
BL60 Kunlun is a jing-river; fire 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 | BL60 — Kunlun (Kunlun Mountains) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Bladder — Foot Taiyang |
| Classification | Jing-River; Fire |
| Region | Posterolateral ankle |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | At the outer ankle, in the depression between the lateral malleolar prominence and the Achilles tendon. |
Location of BL60 Kunlun
At the outer ankle, in the depression between the lateral malleolar prominence and the Achilles tendon.
Landmark sequence
- Position the foot so the outer ankle is visible.
- Identify the lateral malleolus and Achilles tendon.
- Palpate the hollow between them at malleolar prominence level.
- Confirm the point is posterior to the malleolus rather than below it.
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
BL60 is behind the lateral malleolus at its prominence level. BL62 is directly below the malleolus.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Activates the channel and eases pain
- Benefits the lumbar region
- Relaxes the sinews and clears Heat
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for ankle or heel discomfort, lumbar channel pain and selected posterior neck or head presentations. It has a traditional association with promoting labour.
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, SI3. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
Assess the Achilles tendon, fibular tendons, superficial vessels and sural nerve region. BL60 is traditionally avoided in pregnancy; pregnancy-related use belongs to practitioners specifically trained in obstetric acupuncture and appropriate maternity care.
- 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
A sudden snap with inability to push off may indicate Achilles rupture. Significant ankle trauma requires assessment. Pregnancy symptoms such as bleeding or severe abdominal pain need maternity assessment.
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 BL60. 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 BL60); 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.
