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Swelling Painaccording to TCM

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Symptom family: General Body Pain and Discomfort

What is Swelling Pain?

Swelling pain, also known as distending pain or expanding pain, is characterized by discomfort or pain that is accompanied by noticeable swelling in the affected area. This type of pain can be due to inflammation, fluid retention, or tissue injury, leading to a sensation of expansion and pressure. Medically, swelling pain often indicates an underlying issue such as infection, trauma, or a chronic condition like arthritis. The swelling can cause restricted movement and increased sensitivity, making even light pressure painful.

How Does TCM View Swelling Pain?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), swelling pain is seen as a symptom resulting from various patterns of disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which might focus on the physical aspect of swelling and inflammation, TCM looks at the balance of Qi, Blood, and bodily fluids. The pain and swelling are often linked to disruptions in the flow of Qi and Blood or the accumulation of Dampness. Identifying the specific pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as TCM aims to address the root cause rather than just the symptoms.

Causes of Swelling Pain According to TCM

One common cause of swelling pain in TCM is Blood Stagnation. This pattern arises when the flow of Blood is impeded, leading to pain and swelling. Blood Stagnation can result from physical trauma, emotional stress, or chronic conditions, and it often presents with sharp, fixed pain and possible bruising or discoloration.

TCM Herbs for Swelling Pain

For treating swelling pain due to Blood Stagnation, Diverse Wormwood Herbs (Liu Ji Nu) are often recommended. This Bitter and Warm herb targets the Spleen and Heart, helping to invigorate the Blood and reduce stagnation. It is also useful for treating conditions of Food Stagnation, aiding in the digestion and elimination of accumulated food.

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  • Herbs that invigorate the blood

Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Swelling pain can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.

One such herb is Diverse Wormwood Herbs (Liu Ji Nu), which is directly recommended for swelling pain.