The Lung Associated Point pressure point (B 13) is a significant back-shu point on the Urinary Bladder meridian. Located on the upper back, it is traditionally linked to the function of the Lungs and is often used in both acupuncture and acupressure to support respiratory health. It plays a role in clearing congestion, regulating breathing, and easing muscular tension in the upper back and shoulders.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | B 13 – Lung Associated Point |
| Body Area | Upper Back |
| Exact Location | Between spine and shoulder blade, 1 finger width below upper tip of shoulder blade |
| Common Uses | Relieves asthma, coughing, shoulder tension |
| Stimulation Technique | Apply firm pressure with fingertips while bending forward slightly |
| Contraindications | Avoid if recent spinal injury, inflammation, or respiratory distress |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Lung Associated Point pressure point is clinically utilized for:
- Asthmatic symptoms and shallow or labored breathing
- Persistent coughing, including dry or productive cough
- Tightness or pain in the upper back or scapular region
- Respiratory fatigue due to cold or chronic illness
- Emotional grief or sadness (in TCM, associated with the Lungs)
This point is traditionally activated to tonify Lung Qi, release exterior pathogens, and reduce local muscular rigidity.
Location
B 13 is located on the upper back, between the medial border of the scapula and the spine, approximately one finger width (around 1 inch) below the upper tip of the shoulder blade.
To locate:
- Place your fingers at the upper edge of the scapula (shoulder blade)
- Slide down one finger-width and palpate for a space midway between the scapula and spine
- The point is typically found between the T3 vertebra and the medial scapular edge
It is often included in thoracic meridian maps and upper respiratory acupressure protocols.
How to Stimulate It
To activate B 13:
- Technique: Use firm pressure with fingertips or knuckles
- Direction: Press straight into the back muscles, avoiding sharp pressure over the spine
- Duration: Hold for 1–2 minutes while breathing deeply
- Frequency: Use once to twice daily, especially during flare-ups of respiratory symptoms
- Posture: Recommended in a seated forward-bend position, allowing the scapulae to move outward and expose the area
This point is often used in bilateral stimulation (both sides of the spine) for enhanced effect.
Benefits and Common Uses
B 13 is traditionally and clinically used to:
- Ease asthma and facilitate smoother breathing
- Reduce coughing and assist in phlegm clearance
- Relieve upper back stiffness, especially around the scapular region
- Support immune response in cold or flu episodes
- Balance emotional responses associated with grief or sadness in TCM Lung theory
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, B 13 is the Back-Shu Point of the Lung, essential for tonifying Lung Qi, releasing the exterior, and dispersing stagnation in the chest and upper back.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, B 13 lies over:
- The trapezius and rhomboid muscles
- Dorsal branches of the thoracic spinal nerves
- Adjacent to the scapular and intercostal arteries
Stimulation of B 13 may:
- Promote relaxation of upper thoracic musculature
- Encourage deeper respiratory cycles by reducing postural restriction
- Influence autonomic nervous system tone, aiding in parasympathetic balance
- Stimulate lymphatic drainage and microcirculation across the scapular region
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point is especially helpful during seasonal transitions or when a lingering cough tightens the chest and upper back. Gentle pressure, combined with forward bending, makes access easier and enhances relief within minutes.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid stimulating B 13 in the following conditions:
- Spinal injuries, disc herniation, or recent upper back trauma
- Severe respiratory distress or asthma attack (use emergency protocols instead)
- Skin infections, open wounds, or bruising in the upper back area
Always apply pressure with care, especially over sensitive vertebral structures. Consult our acupressure safety guide for more detailed precautions.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
B 13 is frequently paired with:
- CV 17 – Sea of Tranquility for emotional balance and chest expansion
- LU 1 – Central Treasury to activate Lung meridian and relieve congestion
- LI 4 – Joining the Valley to support immune system and respiratory flow
Complementary techniques:
- Breathwork such as pursed-lip or diaphragmatic breathing
- Moxibustion for cold-related cough or Lung deficiency
- Shoulder rolls or scapular mobilization to support muscular release after stimulation
Scientific Perspective
B 13 has been referenced in studies examining acupressure’s role in:
- Improving pulmonary function in asthma and COPD patients
- Reducing muscular tension and upper thoracic fatigue
- Supporting psychosomatic breathing dysfunctions, such as hyperventilation syndrome
These outcomes may be due to effects on intercostal nerve activity and sympathetic regulation of respiratory muscles (NIH).