Rib Painaccording to TCM

What is Rib Pain?

Rib pain involves discomfort or pain felt in or around the rib cage. The pain can range from mild to severe and may occur as sharp spasms or a dull, constant ache. This type of pain is commonly associated with physical injury, inflammation, or infections affecting the ribs and the surrounding tissues, including the intercostal muscles and costal cartilages. It can also be a symptom of systemic conditions such as osteoporosis or as a referred pain from other organs in the thoracic or abdominal area.

How Does TCM View Rib Pain?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on rib pain, viewing it as a manifestation of imbalances in the body's energy pathways or Qi. TCM theory suggests that rib pain often arises from Stagnation, where Qi and Blood fail to flow freely, leading to discomfort and pain.

This stagnation can be caused by external factors like injury or weather changes, or internal factors such as emotional stress or dietary imbalances. Effective treatment, according to TCM, hinges on identifying the specific pattern of disharmony involved, thereby customizing the therapeutic approach to restore balance and alleviate pain.

Acupoints for Rib Pain

In TCM, acupuncture is a primary method for treating rib pain, with several key points targeted to alleviate symptoms. Among these, Bulang KID-22 in the Kidney Channel is located in the 5th intercostal space, just 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline. This point is utilized to calm Rebellious Qi affecting the lung and stomach, helping to open the chest and ease breathing difficulties. Similarly, Dabao SP-21 in the Spleen Channel, found on the mid-axillary line in the 6th intercostal space, is known to invigorate blood circulation throughout the body and regulate Qi within the chest, thus addressing pain caused by Qi Stagnation.

Additionally, Riyue GB-24 on the Gall Bladder Channel, positioned on the mamillary line in the 7th intercostal space, is used to address issues of damp-heat and Liver Qi Stagnation, which are common TCM diagnoses for rib pain. This point works to clear excess conditions and smooth the flow of liver Qi, reducing the tension and pain in the rib cage.

Furthermore, Zhangmen LIV-13 and Hunmen BL-47 provide complementary benefits by invigorating liver Qi and harmonizing the liver and spleen, as well as resolving Liver Qi Stagnation and supporting the ethereal soul respectively, thereby contributing to the holistic treatment of rib pain in TCM. These acupoints are integral to managing the physical discomfort and the underlying energetic imbalances associated with rib pain.

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

Bulang KID-22

In the 5th intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Dabao SP-21

On the mid-axillary line, in the 6th intercostal space.

Riyue GB-24

On the mamillary line which is 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline, in the 7th intercostal space, 1 intercostal space below Qimen LIV-14.

Zhangmen LIV-13

On the lateral side of the abdomen, below the free end of the 11th rib.

Hunmen BL-47

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