Paralysis Of The Limbsaccording to TCM
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Symptom families: Neurological Disorders, Paralysis and Movement Neurological Disorders, Limbs disorders and Symptoms
Parent symptom: Paralysis
Sub-symptom(s): Lower Limb Paralysis
Did you mean? Weak Limbs Monoplegia
What is Paralysis of the Limbs?
Paralysis of the limbs, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle function in one or more limbs, presents a significant challenge to those affected. It can manifest as complete or partial inability to move arms, legs, or both, severely impacting an individual's ability to perform daily activities and maintain independence.
This symptom can arise from a myriad of health conditions, including stroke, spinal cord injury, and neurological diseases, underscoring the importance of understanding its underlying causes for effective management and treatment.
How does TCM View Paralysis of the Limbs?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches paralysis of the limbs with a holistic lens, viewing it as a manifestation of underlying imbalances within the body's energetic pathways.
According to TCM, paralysis can result from the Stagnation of Qi (vital energy) and Blood, invasion of external pathological factors such as Wind, Cold, and Dampness, or a Deficiency in the body’s fundamental substances like Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang. Recognizing and addressing the specific disharmony is crucial in TCM to restore movement and health.
Causes of Paralysis of the Limbs According to TCM
In TCM, paralysis of the limbs is often attributed to the obstruction of meridian pathways by external pathogenic factors like Wind and Dampness. Wind is considered a leading cause, believed to invade the body and block the flow of Qi and Blood, leading to the loss of nourishment and function in the limbs.
Dampness, when combined with Wind, can exacerbate the condition, adding a sense of heaviness and further impeding the movement of Qi. These insights guide TCM practitioners in tailoring treatments that not only alleviate symptoms but also target the root cause of paralysis.
Acupoints for Paralysis Of The Limbs
Explore below some acupoints used to address paralysis of the limbs, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Extra Points: Lower Extremities (EX-LE)
- Spleen Channel
- Stomach Channel
Dannang EX-LE-6
On the Gall Bladder Channel of the right leg, about 1-2 cun below Yanglingquan GB-34. Around there, palpate and locate Dannang EX-LE-6 at the most tender point.
Lanwei EX-LE-7
On the Stomach Channel of the right leg, Lanwei EX-LE-7 is about 2 cun distal to Zusanli ST-36, in the most tender point of that area.
Xiajuxu ST-39
9 cun below Dubi ST-35, about one middle finger-width lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.
TCM Herbs for Paralysis Of The Limbs
TCM employs a variety of herbs to counteract the effects of paralysis by restoring the smooth flow of Qi and blood and dispelling pathogenic factors. Among the herbs recommended, Black-Tail Snakes (Wu shao she) is particularly valued for its properties in dispelling Wind and Dampness, making it a common choice for treating Wind-Damp induced paralysis.
By focusing on the underlying imbalances and employing targeted herbal therapies, TCM offers a complementary approach to conventional treatments, aiming to enhance recovery and improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing paralysis of the limbs.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that dispel wind and dampness
Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness
Paralysis of the limbs can be treated by these herbs when it is due to the invasion or accumulation of wind and dampness, which often affects the muscles and joints.
One such herb is Black-Tail Snakes (Wu shao she), which is directly recommended for paralysis of the limbs.