Upper Abdominal Pulsationaccording to TCM

What is Upper Abdominal Pulsation?

Upper abdominal pulsation is a sensation or perception of throbbing or pulsing in the area of the upper abdomen, often described as a rhythmic expansion and contraction similar to a heartbeat. This sensation may be noticeable but not always painful. It can be a manifestation of various underlying conditions or simply a benign experience noticed in a quiet moment.

Regardless of its cause, when persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, it prompts individuals to seek medical attention to rule out serious health issues. Synonyms include epigastric pulsation, feeling of pulsation in the epigastrium, and sensation of throbbing in the upper abdomen, highlighting its central location and rhythmic nature.

How does TCM view Upper Abdominal Pulsation?

From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), upper abdominal pulsation is not merely a physical symptom but a signal of deeper imbalances within the body's energy systems. TCM posits that such sensations arise when the natural flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood through the body's meridians and organs is disrupted.

This disruption can stem from various disharmonies or blockages, and understanding the specific "pattern" of disharmony is essential. Identifying these patterns through diagnostic methods unique to TCM allows practitioners to address both the symptom and its root cause, aiming for holistic healing and restoration of balance.

Root Causes of Upper Abdominal Pulsation in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, upper abdominal pulsation is often seen as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies within the body's energy system. One common cause is Qi Stagnation, particularly related to the Liver. This pattern is characterized by a blockage or sluggish movement of Qi, resulting in symptoms such as a feeling of pulsation in the epigastrium, alongside emotional disturbances like mood swings, melancholia, and sighing.

Another potential cause is Blood Stasis, where the blood's flow is impeded, leading to sharp, stabbing pains that may be perceived as pulsation due to the build-up of pressure. Addressing these patterns requires a detailed understanding of the individual's overall health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being, highlighting TCM's holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment.

Explore below more details about what might cause Upper abdominal pulsation according to TCM.

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Upper Abdominal Pulsation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Feeling of pulsation in epigastrium, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more	Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Upper Abdominal Pulsation

Pattern Name	Relevant Symptoms	Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation	Feeling of pulsation in epigastrium, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more	Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Yue Ju Wan | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian

TCM Herbal Formulas for Upper Abdominal Pulsation

To address the sensation of upper abdominal pulsation, TCM practitioners might recommend a variety of herbal formulas based on the identified underlying pattern. For cases attributed to Liver Qi Stagnation, formulas like Xiao Yao San and its modification, Jia Wei Xiao Yao San, are commonly prescribed. These formulas aim to soothe the Liver, promote the smooth flow of Qi, and alleviate emotional stress, indirectly relieving the sensation of pulsation.

The choice of formula is tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and overall pattern of disharmony, embodying TCM's personalized approach to healing. Through such targeted treatments, TCM seeks to restore the body's harmony and eliminate the root cause of symptoms like upper abdominal pulsation.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address upper abdominal pulsation, organized by cause and by formula type.

Top Formula for Qi Stagnation:
Xiao Yao San

Suitable for Qi Stagnation patterns that may cause upper abdominal pulsation, such as Liver Qi Stagnation

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All Formulas Recommended for Upper Abdominal Pulsation Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula	Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San	Liver Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San	Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan	Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San	Liver Qi Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian	Liver Qi Stagnation

TCM Herbs for Upper Abdominal Pulsation

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address upper abdominal pulsation, organized by herb category.