Occipital Headacheaccording to TCM

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Symptom family: Headaches

Parent symptom: Headaches

What is Occipital Headache?

An occipital headache is characterized by persistent pain at the base of the skull that sometimes radiates toward the neck. This type of headache is recognized by TCM as a distinct pattern within the broader category of headaches, known for its location and unique attributes which can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.

How does TCM view Occipital Headaches

In TCM, occipital headaches are not seen as isolated symptoms but as signals of an underlying imbalance. The holistic approach of TCM aims to identify the root cause or 'pattern' of disharmony causing the headache. Recognizing the correct pattern is vital, as it guides the personalized treatment plan, focusing on restoring harmony and balance within the body.

Root Causes of Occipital Headache in TCM

TCM attributes occipital headaches to several patterns, often related to the invasion of Wind, the presence of Cold, or a deficiency of Yin. For instance, the Greater Yang Attack of Wind can manifest as occipital headaches with accompanying symptoms like stiffness in the neck and a slight aversion to cold.

Similarly, Wind-Cold pattern may present with a stiff occiput, sneezing, and nasal congestion. The treatment in TCM revolves around dispelling Wind, warming the channels, and nourishing the deficient energies to alleviate symptoms.

Explore below more details about what might cause Occipital headache according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Kidney
  • Liver
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Occipital Headache

Common Symptoms: Sneezing Anemophobia Aversion To Cold Fever Coughing Nasal Discharge Occipital Stiffness Congested Nose

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Greater Yang Attack of Wind Occipital headaches, Slight aversion to cold, Anemophobia, Low grade fever, Mild sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Occipital headache... see more Gui Zhi Tang
Wind-Cold Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Wind-Heat Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
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 Occipital Headache

Common Symptoms: Aversion To Cold Lack Of Sweating Sneezing Nasal Discharge Low Grade Fever Stiff Neck Shortness Of Breath Fever

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Greater Yang Attack of Cold Occipital headaches, Occipital headache, Aversion to cold, Low grade fever, Lack of sweating, Stiff neck, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Shortness of breath... see more Ma Huang Tang
Wind-Cold Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital headache, Occipital stiffness, Congested nose, White and watery sputum... see more Ma Huang Tang | Jing Fang Bai Du San | Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Jia Wei Xiang Su San | Shi Shen Tang | Jin Fei Cao San | Wu Ji San
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Occipital Headache

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Occipital headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
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 Occipital Headache

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Heat Occipital headaches, Aversion to cold, Fever, Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Occipital stiffness, Occipital headache, Excessive sweating, Sore throat, Yellowish phlegm... see more Cong Chi Tang | Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang | Yin Qiao San | Sang Ju Yin | Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang | Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang | Xiao Feng San | Fang Feng Tong Sheng San | Bing Peng San | Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Occipital Headache

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Occipital headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian
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 Occipital Headache

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency Occipital headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Vertical headaches, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility... see more Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian

TCM Herbal Formulas for Occipital Headache

For occipital headaches arising from Wind-Cold patterns, TCM suggests formulas like Gui Zhi Tang, which uses Cinnamon Twigs to release the Exterior and dispel Wind. In cases where Cold attacks the Greater Yang channel, Ma Huang Tang, which includes Ephedra, warms the Interior and expels Cold. Each herbal prescription is tailored to address the specific TCM diagnosis, ensuring a targeted approach to treatment.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that clear wind-Heat
  • Formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders
  • Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
  • Formulas that release the exterior and warm the interior
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that release the exterior and purge the interior
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity

All Formulas Recommended for Occipital Headache Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Ma Huang Tang Wind-Cold
Gui Zhi Tang Greater Yang Attack of Wind
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Wind-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Occipital Headache Caused by Cold

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ma Huang Tang Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold
Wu Ji San Wind-Cold

All Formulas Recommended for Occipital Headache Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Qing Gu San Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Occipital Headache Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Heat
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat
Xiao Feng San Wind-Heat
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for occipital headache

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ma Huang Tang Greater Yang Attack of Cold, Wind-Cold
Gui Zhi Tang Greater Yang Attack of Wind
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang Wind-Cold
Jia Wei Xiang Su San Wind-Cold
Shi Shen Tang Wind-Cold
Jin Fei Cao San Wind-Cold

All "external formulas for external disorders" recommended for occipital headache

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Jing Fang Bai Du San Wind-Cold
Yin Qiao San Wind-Heat
Bing Peng San Wind-Heat

All "formulas that clear early-stage exterior disorders" recommended for occipital headache

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Cong Chi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat
Huo Ren Cong Shi Tang Wind-Cold, Wind-Heat

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for occipital headache

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Yi Guan Jian Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency

All "formulas that clear wind-Heat" recommended for occipital headache

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Sang Ju Yin Wind-Heat
Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang Wind-Heat
Zhu Ye Cheng Liu Tang Wind-Heat

Acupoints for Occipital Headache

TCM also prescribes acupuncture as a method to relieve occipital headaches. Points along the Bladder Channel, like Fengchi (GB-20), located at the nape of the neck, are often selected for their effectiveness in treating headaches by clearing Wind and easing tension. Dazhui (DU-14) is another crucial point that is believed to clear Wind-Heat and release the Exterior, providing relief from pain.

Explore below some acupoints used to address occipital headache, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Governing Vessel
  • Small Intestine Channel
  • Gall Bladder Channel
Yuzhen BL-9

Yuzhen BL-9

First identify Naohu DU-17 which is on the superior border of the external occipital protuberance. Yuzhen BL-9 is 1.3 cun lateral to Naohu DU-17.

Tianzhu BL-10

Tianzhu BL-10

1.3 cun lateral to Yamen DU-15 on the posterior midline, 0.5 cun above the posterior hairline, on the lateral side of trapezius muscle.

Fengmen BL-12

Fengmen BL-12

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd thoracic vertebra (T2).

Feiyang BL-58

Feiyang BL-58

On the posterior border of fibula, about 1 cun inferior and lateral to Chengshan BL-57, 7 cun directly above Kunlun BL-60.

Kunlun BL-60

Kunlun BL-60

In the depression between the tip of the lateral malleolus and the Achilles tendon.

Shenmai BL-62

Shenmai BL-62

In the depression directly below the lateral malleolus tip.

Shugu BL-65

Shugu BL-65

On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, proximal to the head of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Zhiyin BL-67

Zhiyin BL-67

On the lateral side of the little toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Dazhui DU-14

Dazhui DU-14

On the midline at the base of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).

Fengfu DU-16

Fengfu DU-16

Directly below the external occipital protuberance, in the depression between the origins of the trapezius muscle.

Houxi SI-3

Houxi SI-3

Proximal to the head of the 5th metacarpal bone on the ulnar side, in the depression at the junction of the red and white skin.

Fengchi GB-20

Fengchi GB-20

In the posterior aspect of the neck, below the occipital bone, in the depression between the upper portion of sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle.