Hip Bone Painaccording to TCM

What is Hip Bone Pain?

Hip bone pain refers to discomfort or aches localized in the iliac region, often manifesting as sharp, dull, or throbbing sensations. This type of pain can significantly affect mobility and quality of life, making it challenging to perform everyday activities. It's a specific form of bone pain that can result from a variety of causes, including trauma, overuse injuries, or underlying medical conditions.

How does TCM View Hip Bone Pain?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches hip bone pain through a holistic lens, viewing it as a symptom of imbalance within the body's energetic pathways. TCM practitioners believe that pain in the hip bone area can be linked to Stagnation or Deficiencies in Qi (vital energy) and Blood flow, often associated with the Liver and Gall Bladder Channel.

Identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony—be it Stagnation, Deficiency, or Dampness—is essential for effective treatment. TCM emphasizes restoring balance and harmony to alleviate pain and improve function.

Acupoints for Hip Bone Pain

In TCM, acupoint therapy is a key component of managing hip bone pain. Points along the Gall Bladder Channel, such as Weidao GB-28 and Wushu GB-27, are particularly beneficial. Weidao GB-28 is found anterior and inferior to the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), playing a critical role in regulating the Girdle Vessel and addressing lower burner issues that can contribute to hip pain.

Similarly, Wushu GB-27, located on the lateral side of the abdomen near the ASIS, is utilized to regulate the Girdle Vessel and relieve Stagnation in the Lower Burner. Stimulating these acupoints can help enhance Qi and Blood flow, reduce Stagnation, and alleviate pain in the hip area.

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

Wushu GB-27

In the lateral side of the abdomen, in the front of the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), 3 cun below the level of the umbilicus.

Weidao GB-28

Anterior and Inferior to the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), 0.5 cun anterior and inferior to Wushu GB-27.