Eyelids Twitchingaccording to TCM

What is Eyelids Twitching?

Eyelids twitching, commonly referred to as eyelid spasms or tics, is a condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive blinking or spasm of the eyelid muscles. These spasms can affect either one or both eyelids and are often harmless and transient.

Eyelid twitching can be triggered by factors such as fatigue, stress, caffeine, or eye strain. While typically not a cause for concern, persistent or severe twitching may warrant medical attention to rule out underlying conditions.

How does TCM view Eyelids Twitching?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets eyelids twitching through a holistic lens, significantly different from Western medical perspectives. In TCM, such symptoms are often seen as manifestations of internal imbalances in the body’s Qi, Blood, and Organ systems.

TCM practitioners commonly associate eyelids twitching with Liver Wind or a Deficiency in Liver Blood, which can disrupt the nourishment and stability of the sinews and muscles. Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM for selecting the appropriate treatment to address the root cause of the symptom.

Acupoints for Eyelids Twitching

TCM utilizes acupuncture as an effective method to address eyelids twitching. Specific acupoints are chosen to harmonize imbalances and alleviate the spasms. Chengqi ST-1, located between the eyeball and the midpoint of the infraorbital ridge, is used for its actions in clearing Heat and Wind, which can benefit eye conditions. Dicang ST-4 and Sibai ST-2 are other important points, known for expelling Wind and clearing Heat. Touwei ST-8, located at the temporal corner of the forehead, helps in expelling Wind and relieving pain.

Additionally, acupoints such as Quanliao SI-18, Sizhukong TB-23, Yangbai GB-14, and Yuyao EX-HN-4 are selected for their benefits to the eyes and ability to relax the sinews and reduce pain. These acupoints are stimulated based on the individual's specific TCM diagnosis, aiming to enhance the body’s natural healing processes and restore balance.

Explore below some acupoints used to address eyelids twitching, organized by meridian.

Chengqi ST-1

Between the eyeball and the midpoint of the infraorbital ridge.

Sibai ST-2

Below Chengqi ST-1, in the depression at the infraorbital foramen.

Dicang ST-4

Lateral to the corner of the mouth, directly below Juliao ST-3.

Touwei ST-8

At the temporal corner of the forehead, on the border of the temporalis muscle. 0.5 cun within the anterior hairline at the corner of the forehead and 4.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Quanliao SI-18

Directly below the outer canthus, in the depression on the lower border of zygoma.

Sizhukong TB-23

In the depression at the lateral end of the eyebrow.

Yangbai GB-14

On the forehead, 1 cun above the midpoint of the eyebrow, approximately at the junction of the upper two-thirds and lower third of the vertical line draw from the anterior hairline to the eyebrow.

Yuyao EX-HN-4

When the patient looks straight forward, Yuyao EX-HN-4 is located directly above the pupil, in the midline of the eyebrow.

Zanzhu BL-2

On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.