Shen Zhu (GV11) - The Body Pillar Acupoint
Published 2026-06-02 · 351 words · Acupressure
Shen Zhu, also known as the Body Pillar or Du 11, is a vital acupoint on the Governing Vessel (Du Mai). Located on the posterior midline, it is renowned for its ability to regulate Qi, strengthen the spine, and treat respiratory and neurological disorders. First recorded in the Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion), this point is a key gateway for clearing heat and calming the mind.
Shen Zhu is situated on the back, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra (T3). To locate it, have the patient sit with the head slightly bent forward; the most prominent spinous process at the base of the neck is C7 (the seventh cervical vertebra). Counting downward, the third prominent process below is T3. The point lies in the hollow directly below this spine.
Underneath the skin, Shen Zhu passes through the lumbar back fascia, supraspinous ligament, and interspinous ligament. It is supplied by the posterior branch of the third intercostal artery and the interspinous venous plexus, and innervated by the medial branch of the posterior ramus of the third intercostal nerve.
Insert the needle obliquely upward at an angle of 0.5 to 1 cun. Moxibustion is also applicable; 3–5 moxa cones or 5–10 minutes of mild moxa stick can be used to warm and strengthen the point.
Shen Zhu is particularly effective for acute cough with fever and for calming the spirit in seizure disorders. It is often used in combination with other Governing Vessel points to regulate the entire spine and nervous system. For chronic lower back pain, it may be paired with Shenshu (BL23) and Weizhong (BL40).
References
1. Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion), Huangfu Mi, ca. 260 CE.
2. Huangdi Neijing Lingshu (The Spiritual Pivot), ca. 2nd century BCE.
3. Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica), Li Shizhen, 1596.
4. Deadman, P., Al-Khafaji, M., & Baker, K. (2007). A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
5. WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region, 2008.