Delayed Fontanel Closureaccording to TCM

What is Delayed Fontanel Closure?

Delayed fontanel closure refers to the condition where the soft spot on a baby's head (the fontanelle) takes longer to close than usual. Typically, fontanelles close as the child's skull grows and fuses together, which is generally expected to happen in the first 18 to 24 months of life. Delay in this process could be indicative of various health

concerns. It is essential to understand that the timing of fontanel closure can vary among infants, yet a significant delay may warrant medical attention.

How does TCM view Delayed Fontanel Closure?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), delayed fontanel closure is viewed through a lens that focuses on the balance and flow of Qi, the vital life energy, and the health of the body's organ systems. TCM posits that such developmental delays are often linked to underlying disharmonies within the body. It emphasizes the importance of identifying the specific pattern of imbalance that might be contributing to the delayed closure.

This approach is quite different from Western medicine, which may focus more directly on physical developmental markers without necessarily considering the broader holistic balance of the body's energies.

Root Causes of Delayed Fontanel Closure in TCM

According to TCM, one of the primary causes of delayed fontanel closure is Essence Deficiency. This condition is often linked to the Kidney Essence Deficiency pattern, characterized by symptoms such as late closure of the fontanelle, deafness, decreased mental sharpness, osteomalacia, hair loss, lower back pain, infertility, and primary amenorrhea.

In treating these conditions, TCM practitioners consider both the symptoms and the overall constitution of the child. This holistic approach aims to correct the underlying imbalances and promote the healthy development of the child.

Explore below more details about what might cause Delayed fontanel closure according to TCM.

Essence Deficiency

In TCM "Essence" (Jing) deficiency refers to a depletion of the body's fundamental substance, which is vital for growth, development, reproduction, and overall vitality. Jing, often translated as "Essence," is a unique concept in TCM, seen as the basis of all life activities and inherited from our parents. Essence deficiency manifests in various symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, weakness, slow physical or mental development, fertility issues, premature aging, weak bones, and a lackluster complexion. It can also affect the hair, leading to premature greying or hair loss. This pattern of disharmony often arises from congenital factors, chronic illness, overwork, or excessive behaviors that drain the body's resources. ... see more

Essence Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Delayed Fontanel Closure

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Essence Deficiency	Late closure of fontanelle, Deafness, Decreased mental sharpness, Intellectual disability, Osteomalacia, Hair loss, Lower back pain, Infertility, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more	Zuo Gui Wan | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Huan Shao Dan

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Delayed Fontanel Closure

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Kidney Essence Deficiency	Late closure of fontanelle, Deafness, Decreased mental sharpness, Intellectual disability, Osteomalacia, Hair loss, Lower back pain, Infertility, Primary amenorrhea, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Absentmindness... see more	Zuo Gui Wan | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Huan Shao Dan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Delayed Fontanel Closure

For cases identified with Kidney Essence Deficiency, TCM recommends formulas like Zuo Gui Wan and Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan. Zuo Gui Wan, a formula that nourishes Yin and tonifies, contains Prepared rehmannia (Shu Di huang) as a key herb and is known for its properties that support Kidney Yin and Essence.

Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan, another potent formula, falls under the category of "Formulas that warm Yang and tonify." It includes Cuscuta seeds (Tu Si Zi) as a key herb and is used for its Yang-tonifying properties.

These formulas are selected based on the individual patterns observed in the child and are part of a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and other supportive measures. The goal of TCM treatment in such cases is not only to address the symptom of delayed fontanel closure but also to strengthen the child’s overall health and developmental potential.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address delayed fontanel closure, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Essence Deficiency:
Zuo Gui Wan

Suitable for Essence Deficiency patterns that may cause delayed fontanel closure, such as Kidney Essence Deficiency

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All Formulas Recommended for Delayed Fontanel Closure Caused by Essence Deficiency

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Zuo Gui Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Tu Si Zi Wan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan	Kidney Essence Deficiency
Huan Shao Dan	Kidney Essence Deficiency

TCM Herbs for Delayed Fontanel Closure

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address delayed fontanel closure, organized by herb category.