Wrist Painaccording to TCM

What is Wrist Pain?

Wrist pain encompasses a range of discomforts from a dull ache to sharp throbs in the wrist area. It can impede hand movement and diminish grip strength, often exacerbating during tasks involving wrist motion. Wrist pain may stem from a variety of causes including repetitive stress, sudden impacts, or the onset of arthritis.

It can be acute, following an injury, or chronic, developing over time with activities such as typing, sports, or manual work. Understanding wrist pain is pivotal for proper treatment and to prevent further exacerbation of the condition.

How does TCM view Wrist Pain?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), wrist pain is often seen as a manifestation of disrupted Qi flow or Blood Stagnation in the meridians that traverse the wrist. It's not viewed in isolation but as a symptom of imbalance in the body's overall energy system. The TCM approach to wrist pain involves restoring balance and harmonious Qi flow, thereby addressing both the symptomatic pain and its underlying causes.

Root Causes of Wrist Pain in TCM

TCM attributes wrist pain to various patterns of disharmony within the body. One such pattern is the Stagnation of Blood and Qi, often due to external factors such as Wind or Damp invading the wrist meridians, leading to what is known as Painful Obstruction Syndrome.

This condition is characterized by a sensation of pain and stiffness in the wrist, which can be exacerbated by cold weather. Another cause could be internal, stemming from an imbalance of Yin and Yang within the body, leading to deficient Qi that fails to nourish the tendons and muscles, resulting in weakness and pain.

Explore below more details about what might cause Wrist pain according to TCM.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Wrist Pain

In TCM, treatment of wrist pain often involves herbal formulas that aim to dispel wind, eliminate cold, nourish blood, and free up the flow of Qi through the meridians. For instance, Wu Tou Tang is a formula used to warm the meridians and disperse Wind-Damp, particularly when the pain is aggravated by cold weather or is accompanied by a sensation of cold in the wrist. The key herb in this formula, Prepared Sichuan aconite, is known for its warming properties and ability to dispel wind and dampness.

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

Acupoints for Wrist Pain

In managing wrist pain, TCM emphasizes the use of acupressure or acupuncture at specific points. Waiguan TB-5 is a potent point on the Triple Burner Channel, known to expel wind-heat and alleviate channel obstruction symptoms like wrist pain. Yangchi TB-4 is another significant point that helps regulate Body Fluids in the Lower Burner and tonify the body's fundamental Qi, providing relief for wrist discomfort.

Additionally, points like Yangxi LI-5 on the Large Intestine Channel are utilized to expel wind and clear heat, which can be beneficial for wrist pain associated with inflammation. Each of these points plays a role in the TCM goal of restoring a harmonious flow of Qi, thereby reducing pain and improving wrist function.

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

Yemen TB-2

Proximal to the margin of the web between the ring and small fingers.

Yangchi TB-4

At the junction of the ulna carpal bones of the wrist dorsum, in the depression lateral to the tendon of extensor digitorum and extensor digiti minimi muscle.

Waiguan TB-5

2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Qiangu SI-2

On the ulnar aspect of the little finger, distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint, at the junction of the shaft and the base of the proximal phalanx.

Wangu SI-4

On the ulnar side of the palm, in the depression between the base of the 5th metacarpal bone and the carpal bone.

Yangxi LI-5

On the radial side of the wrist. When the thumb is tilted upward, it is in the depression on the wrist joint space (wrist crease) between the tendons of extensor pollicis longus and brevis muscles.

Zusanli ST-36

3 cun below Dubi ST-35, one finger breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, on the tibialis anterior muscle.