Hypochondriac Painaccording to TCM

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What is Hypochondriac Pain?

Hypochondriac pain refers to discomfort or pain located under the lower ribs and above the navel on either side of the body. This type of pain can range from mild to severe and is often described as a persistent, sharp, or stabbing sensation that may intensify with movements such as coughing and deep breathing. Recognized across medical disciplines, hypochondriac pain can signal underlying issues that require both diagnostic insight and targeted care.

How does TCM View Hypochondriac Pain?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets hypochondriac pain not just as a localized discomfort but as an indication of imbalance within the body’s vital energy, or Qi, and associated organ systems. According to TCM, such pain often stems from disruptions in the Liver or Gallbladder Channel, which can be caused by emotional stress or dietary factors, leading to Qi Stagnation or the accumulation of pathogenic factors like Dampness and Heat. Effective treatment in TCM hinges on identifying the specific disharmony pattern, underscoring the importance of a holistic diagnostic approach.

Root Causes of Hypochondriac Pain in TCM

TCM identifies multiple patterns that could underpin hypochondriac pain, with two primary ones being Heat and Qi Stagnation. Heat, particularly Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder, manifests with symptoms such as a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the hypochondria, nausea, and a bitter taste in the mouth, reflecting an overload of toxins that inflame the gallbladder pathway.

Qi Stagnation, on the other hand, typically results from emotional upheaval or stress, leading to the constrained flow of Qi and Blood, which causes pain and fullness in the hypochondrial region. Recognizing these patterns allows practitioners to tailor treatments that address both the symptoms and the root causes of the pain.

Explore below more details about what might cause Hypochondriac pain according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Common Symptoms: Bitter Taste In The Mouth Irritability Dizziness Hypochondriac Distention Dry Mouth Without Desire To Drink Feeling Of Heaviness Alternating Sensation Of Hot And Cold Nausea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder Hypochondrial pain, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more Yin Chen Hao Tang
Gallbladder Heat Hypochondrial pain, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Bitter taste in the mouth, Thirst, Dry throat, Hypochondriac pain, Nausea, Upper abdominal fullness... see more Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain... see more Ping Wei San | Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder Fixed pain in the hypochondria, Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Hypochondriac Pain

Common Symptoms: Irritability Lack Of Appetite General Fullness Depression Mood Swings Sighing Irregular Periods Breast Engorgement

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Stagnation Fixed pain in the hypochondria, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Yue Ju Wan
Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondriac pain, 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 Yue Ju Wan | Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain... see more Ping Wei San | Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Dull Yellow Complexion Nausea Or Vomiting Fat Malabsorption Yellow Sclera Hypochondriac Distention Dry Mouth Without Desire To Drink Irritability

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dampness in the Gallbladder Hypochondriac pain, Jaundice, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow eyes, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Yellow sclera, Cloudy urine, Absence of thirst, Sticky taste in the mouth, Dull headache, Feeling of heaviness... see more San Ren Tang
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder Hypochondrial pain, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more Yin Chen Hao Tang
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain... see more Ping Wei San | Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Common Symptoms: Purple Lips Purple Nails Menstrual Cramps Dark Menstrual Clots Palpitations Chest Pain Chest Distension Stifling Sensation In The Chest

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Stagnation Hypochondriac pain, Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots... see more Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Liver Blood Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Hypochondriac pain, Abdominal pain, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Dark menstrual clots, Infertility, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Purple lips, Purple face, Skin dryness, Petechiae... see more Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shi Xiao San
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Rebellion

Rebellious Qi in TCM is a bit like having a rebel inside your body. Qi, which is the vital energy flowing through your body, is supposed to move in certain directions to keep everything in balance and working well. But with Rebellious Qi, this energy decides to go the opposite way. Think of it like a river flowing upstream instead of downstream. This can cause various issues like heartburn, coughing, or even headaches. It's as if the body's natural flow is disrupted, creating a kind of internal chaos. TCM focuses on correcting this flow, restoring order and balance.... see more

Qi Rebellion Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Hypochondrial pain, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Exterior Cold invading the Interior Hypochondriac pain, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Chills, Low grade fever, Cold extremities, Sweating that doesn't reduce fever, Epigastric palpitations, Dizziness, Twitching, Unsteadiness... see more Da Huang Fu Zi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

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 Hypochondriac Pain

Common Symptoms: Irritability Hypochondriac Distention Upper Abdominal Distension Headaches Sighing Irregular Periods Menstrual Cramps Hiccups

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondriac pain, 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 Yue Ju Wan | Xiao Yao San | Jia Wei Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Yi Guan Jian
Liver Blood Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Hypochondriac pain, Abdominal pain, Vomiting blood, Nosebleeds, Menstrual cramps, Irregular periods, Dark menstrual clots, Infertility, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Purple lips, Purple face, Skin dryness, Petechiae... see more Xiao Yao San | Chai Hu Shu Gan San | Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang | Shi Xiao San
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain... see more Ping Wei San | Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Hypochondrial pain, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder Fixed pain in the hypochondria, Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Gallbladder

In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more

Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Common Symptoms: Bitter Taste In The Mouth Dizziness Irritability Dull Yellow Complexion Nausea Or Vomiting Fat Malabsorption Yellow Sclera Feeling Of Heaviness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dampness in the Gallbladder Hypochondriac pain, Jaundice, Dull yellow complexion, Yellow eyes, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Yellow sclera, Cloudy urine, Absence of thirst, Sticky taste in the mouth, Dull headache, Feeling of heaviness... see more San Ren Tang
Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder Hypochondrial pain, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Nausea or vomiting, Fat malabsorption, Dull yellow complexion, Scanty and dark urine, Fever, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Bitter taste in the mouth, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Irritability, Feeling of heaviness, Limb numbness, Foot edema, Alternating diarrhea and constipation, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Yellow sclera... see more Yin Chen Hao Tang
Gallbladder Heat Hypochondrial pain, Alternating sensation of hot and cold, Bitter taste in the mouth, Thirst, Dry throat, Hypochondriac pain, Nausea, Upper abdominal fullness... see more Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang
Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder Fixed pain in the hypochondria, Hypochondriac pain, Headaches, Dizziness, Red and irritated eyes, Hearing loss, Ear swelling, Bitter taste in the mouth, Irritability, Painful urination, Swollen and itchy external genitalia... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Stagnation Hypochondriac pain, Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots... see more Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation Hypochondrial pain, Upper abdominal oppression, Nausea, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Feeling of heaviness, Dry mouth without desire to drink, Dull shallow face, Irritability, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac distention, Hypochondriac pain... see more Ping Wei San | Dang Gui Shao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Hypochondriac Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach Hypochondrial pain, Irritability, Upper abdominal pain, Upper abdominal distension, Hypochondriac pain, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal oppression, Acid reflux, Hiccups, Belching, Nausea or vomiting, Sighing, Weak limbs... see more Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang | Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang | Si Mo Tang | Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang | Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Hypochondriac Pain

For conditions like Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder, TCM recommends formulations such as Yin Chen Hao Tang, which utilizes Virgate Wormwood to clear heat and drain dampness effectively. Another example is Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang, used to harmonize the lesser Yang-warp disorders and cool down Gallbladder Heat, enhancing the flow of Qi and reducing discomfort.

When dealing with Qi Stagnation, Yue Ju Wan is commonly prescribed to promote Qi movement, alleviate mood swings, and relieve the pent-up tension that exacerbates hypochondrial pain. These targeted treatments reflect TCM’s nuanced approach to restoring harmony and balance within the body.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address hypochondriac pain, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that warm and purge
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that transform dampness and harmonize stomach

All Formulas Recommended for Hypochondriac Pain Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Heat Excess in the Liver or Gallbladder
Yin Chen Hao Tang Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang Gallbladder Heat
Ping Wei San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Hypochondriac Pain Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yi Guan Jian Liver Qi Stagnation
Ping Wei San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Hypochondriac Pain Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
San Ren Tang Dampness in the Gallbladder
Yin Chen Hao Tang Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder
Ping Wei San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Hypochondriac Pain Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xiao Yao San Liver Blood Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Blood Stagnation
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Pericardium Blood Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Liver Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Liver Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Hypochondriac Pain Caused by Qi Rebellion

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Si Mo Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for hypochondriac pain

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation, Liver Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation, Liver Blood Stagnation
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Si Mo Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for hypochondriac pain

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Pericardium Blood Stagnation
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang Liver Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Liver Blood Stagnation
Dang Gui Shao Yao San Obstruction Of the Spleen By Dampness with Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that clear heat and expel dampness" recommended for hypochondriac pain

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
San Ren Tang Dampness in the Gallbladder
Yin Chen Hao Tang Damp-Heat in the Gallbladder

All "formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen" recommended for hypochondriac pain

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation, Liver Blood Stagnation
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation

All "formulas for a rebellious qi" recommended for hypochondriac pain

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach
Ding Xiang Shi Di Tang Rebellious Liver Qi invading the Stomach

Acupoints for Hypochondriac Pain

In managing hypochondriac pain, TCM also emphasizes acupoint therapy, which involves stimulating specific points along the meridians to enhance Qi flow and alleviate symptoms. Points such as Danshu BL-19 and Ganshu BL-18 are pivotal for resolving Damp-Heat and invigorating Liver Qi, which can significantly relieve pain.

Additionally, points like Waiguan TB-5 and Zulingqi GB-41 on the Triple Burner and Gall Bladder Channels respectively, play crucial roles in expelling Wind-Heat and easing Liver Qi Stagnation, providing a multifaceted approach to treatment that includes dietary advice, herbal medicine, and acupuncture. This holistic strategy ensures a comprehensive healing process, targeting the underlying issues while alleviating the discomfort associated with hypochondriac pain.

Explore below some acupoints used to address hypochondriac pain, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Extra Points: Lower Extremities (EX-LE)
  • Kidney Channel
  • Pericardium Channel
Ganshu BL-18

Ganshu BL-18

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra (T9).

Danshu BL-19

Danshu BL-19

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10).

Hunmen BL-47

Hunmen BL-47

3 cun (about 4 finger-breadths) lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra (T9).

Zhongzhu TB-3

Zhongzhu TB-3

When the hand is placed with the palm facing downward, Zhongzhu TB-3 is on the hand dorsum between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints, at the junction between the heads and shaft of the two metacarpal bones.

Waiguan TB-5

Waiguan TB-5

2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Yangfu GB-38

Yangfu GB-38

4 cun above and slightly anterior to the tip of the external malleolus, on the anterior border of the fibula.

Zulingqi GB-41

Zulingqi GB-41

In the depression distal to the junction of the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the foot.

Duyin EX-LE-11

Duyin EX-LE-11

On the plantar aspect of the 2nd toe, at the midpoint of the transverse crease of the distal interphalangeal joint.

Lingxu KID-24

Lingxu KID-24

In the 3rd intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Neiguan P-6

Neiguan P-6

2 cun above Daling P-7 on the transverse crease of the wrist, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscle.