The High Mountains pressure point (B 60) is a key location on the Bladder meridian, traditionally used in Chinese medicine for musculoskeletal relief and nervous system regulation. Found at the ankle, this point is known for its ability to alleviate lower back pain, sciatica, and ankle tension. Its effectiveness in promoting circulation and reducing nerve compression makes it a commonly used point in both modern and traditional therapeutic settings.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | B 60 – High Mountains |
| Body Area | Ankle |
| Exact Location | Hollow between outer anklebone and Achilles tendon |
| Common Uses | Relieves ankle pain, sciatica, lower-back pain |
| Stimulation Technique | Press firmly with thumb while rotating ankle for 1 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid during pregnancy and in cases of acute ankle injury or inflammation |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The High Mountains pressure point is frequently applied to address:
- Lower back pain, especially radiating to the legs (sciatica)
- Ankle sprain recovery, stiffness, or local pain
- Neural tension along the Bladder meridian pathway
- Muscle tightness in the calf or hamstring
- Difficulty with spinal mobility or posture-related fatigue
B 60 is classified in TCM as a Jing-River point and is particularly effective in clearing meridian stagnation in the posterior body, especially along the spine and leg.
Location
B 60 is located on the lateral aspect of the ankle, in the depression between the lateral malleolus (outer anklebone) and the Achilles tendon.
To locate:
- Sit or lie down with the ankle slightly flexed
- Find the outer anklebone and slide your finger backward toward the Achilles tendon
- Feel for a soft hollow space just between these two structures
This point is commonly illustrated in lower leg acupressure diagrams and orthopedic references.
How to Stimulate It
To activate the High Mountains pressure point:
- Technique: Use the thumb of the opposite hand to apply pressure
- Direction: Press inward toward the Achilles tendon
- Intensity: Apply firm, steady pressure while keeping it comfortable
- Duration: Hold for 1 minute while gently rotating the ankle in circles
- Frequency: Stimulate once or twice daily, particularly after walking, standing, or during back pain episodes
- Position: Best accessed while seated or reclining, with foot supported
This point can be used alone or in series with other points along the Bladder or Kidney meridians for lower-body relief.
Benefits and Common Uses
B 60 is traditionally and clinically used to:
- Relieve lower back pain and radiating sciatic discomfort
- Reduce ankle stiffness or pain from repetitive stress
- Alleviate pain along the spine, hips, and knees
- Calm the mind and nervous system, especially during restless states
- Support labor induction (with professional guidance), due to its regulatory effects on pelvic energy
In TCM, B 60 is known to clear heat, relax sinews, and promote smooth Qi flow along the Bladder channel, which spans the entire back and lower limbs.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
Anatomically, B 60 lies over the posterior tibial nerve and small saphenous vein, adjacent to:
- The calcaneofibular ligament
- The flexor retinaculum and Achilles tendon sheath
Stimulation may:
- Improve local blood flow and drainage in the lower leg
- Influence nerve conduction and reduce peripheral compression
- Activate spinal reflexes via dermatomes associated with lumbar nerve roots
- Ease muscular tension through myofascial and neurological pathways
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point has consistently helped with that dull, dragging sensation that starts in the lower back and extends down the leg. It’s particularly effective when combined with movement—gentle ankle rotation seems to amplify its therapeutic effect.
Safety & Contraindications
Avoid or use caution with B 60 under the following conditions:
- Pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, due to its association with uterine activity
- Active inflammation, bruising, or infection in the ankle area
- Post-surgical recovery involving the Achilles tendon or ankle joint
Always apply pressure gradually and avoid overstimulation. For more, refer to our acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
This point is often paired with:
- B 62 – Extending Vessel to relieve lumbar stiffness and insomnia
- K 3 – Bigger Stream for joint support and lower-body grounding
- GV 3 – Lumbar Yang Gate for central lower back relief
Complementary techniques include:
- Gentle ankle mobilization during stimulation
- Moxibustion to enhance circulation and warm the area
- Breathing techniques for nervous system downregulation during lower back spasms
Scientific Perspective
Recent studies on acupressure at ankle-related points suggest benefits for chronic lower back pain, improved range of motion, and reduced muscle tension. MRI and thermographic imaging indicate increased local blood flow and sympathetic nerve regulation post-stimulation. These findings support the traditional claims of B 60’s impact on the posterior kinetic chain. NIH Study