Waist Stiffnessaccording to TCM

1 cause

3 herbal formulas

5 acupoints

Symptom family: Back and Neck Stiffness and Discomfort

Sub-symptom(s): Lumbar Stiffness

Did you mean? Lower Back Stiffness Waist Pain

What is Waist Stiffness?

Waist stiffness refers to a condition characterized by a lack of flexibility and a sensation of tightness in the waist area. This discomfort can impede daily activities and range of motion. Commonly experienced by individuals with sedentary lifestyles or those engaged in physically demanding work, waist stiffness is a symptom often associated with musculoskeletal issues.

How does TCM view Waist Stiffness?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives waist stiffness not just as a physical ailment but as a manifestation of disharmony within the body's energy system. TCM suggests that this stiffness could result from imbalances in Qi (vital energy) and Blood flow, often influenced by factors such as emotional stress, environmental conditions, and the health of internal organs.

Treatment in TCM focuses on restoring balance and ensuring the smooth flow of Qi, addressing both the symptoms and their underlying causes.

Root Causes of Waist Stiffness in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Waist stiffness according to TCM.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Waist Stiffness

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

By Formula Type

Formulas that warm the meridians and disperse cold
Formulas that dispel wind-Damp
Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind

Formulas that warm the Meridians and disperse Cold

These formulas are suitable for some waist stiffness-causing patterns like Painful Obstruction.

One such formula is Wu Tou Tang, with prepared sichuan aconite as a key herb.

Formulas that dispel Wind-Damp

These formulas are suitable for some waist stiffness-causing patterns like Painful Obstruction.

One such formula is Da Fang Feng Tang, with saposhnikovia root as a key herb.

Formulas that dredge and disperse External Wind

These formulas are suitable for some waist stiffness-causing patterns like Painful Obstruction.

One such formula is Xiao Huo Luo Dan, with prepared kusnezoffii aconite as a key herb.

Acupoints for Waist Stiffness

TCM advocates for acupuncture as a method to alleviate waist stiffness. Key acupoints in the Governing Vessel, such as Jizhong DU-6, Xuanshu DU-5, and Yaoyangguan DU-3, are targeted. Jizhong DU-6, located near the 11th thoracic vertebra, is believed to strengthen the Spleen and expel Dampness while benefiting the spine.

Xuanshu DU-5, positioned near the 1st lumbar vertebra, is known for its ability to remove obstructions from the channel and regulate the Lower Burner. Yaoyangguan DU-3, found below the 4th lumbar vertebra, is said to strengthen the lower back and legs and tonify Yang. These acupoints are chosen to enhance the flow of Qi and Blood in the waist area, thereby reducing stiffness and improving mobility.

Explore below some acupoints used to address waist stiffness, organized by meridian.