The BL10 Point

The bladder 10 point is located on the back of the neck where the trapezius muscle attaches to the base of the skull. The lesser occipital nerve is located directly under this point. Pain in the occipital nerves is associated with autonomic failure and syncope. (ie fainting) Thus, striking this nerve can cause a loss of consciousness. In addition, this nerve has a direct communication with the C2 nerve root as well as the spinal accessory and glossopharnygeal nerves which can cause increased parasympathetic stimulation of the heart. In one documented case, an accidental blow to this area resulted in sudden death. At autopsy, there were no findings, just a bruise in this area and the cause of death was deemed autonomic failure and vagal arrest.