Finger Numbnessaccording to TCM

What is Finger Numbness?

Finger numbness, a common and often unsettling symptom, is characterized by a loss of sensation or a tingling feeling in the fingers. It can be temporary or chronic, varying from a mild, fleeting numbness to a persistent and distressing lack of feeling. This condition may arise due to numerous factors, including nerve compression, poor circulation, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Finger numbness can significantly affect daily activities, making tasks that require fine motor skills challenging and sometimes leading to discomfort or pain.

How Does TCM View Finger Numbness?

In the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), finger numbness is viewed through a lens vastly different from that of Western medicine. TCM interprets such symptoms as indications of deeper imbalances within the body's energy systems. According to TCM, finger numbness might be linked to disruptions in the flow of Qi (vital energy) or Blood, imbalances in Yin and Yang, or blockages in the body's meridians.

It is crucial in TCM to first identify the specific pattern of disharmony responsible for the symptom. This holistic approach emphasizes treating the root cause of the numbness, rather than just the symptom itself, to restore the body's natural balance and energy flow.

Acupoints for Finger Numbness

For the treatment of finger numbness, TCM suggests specific acupoints, particularly focusing on the areas that are believed to influence the flow of Qi and Blood to the affected region. In the Extra Points: Upper Extremities (EX-UE), Baxie EX-UE-9 is a group of eight points, four on each hand, located slightly proximal to the margins of the webs between the fingers, on the border of the red and white skin.

These points are known for their ability to clear heat and reduce swelling, as well as relax the sinews. Additionally, in the Large Intestine Channel, Shangyang LI-1 is located on the radial side of the index finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the nail corner. This point is reputed for its actions in clearing heat, expelling Wind-Cold in the channel, and restoring consciousness by expelling wind. The stimulation of these acupoints is aimed at alleviating the numbness by addressing the underlying imbalances, thereby promoting healing and the restoration of normal sensation in the fingers.

Explore below some acupoints used to address finger numbness, organized by meridian.

Baxie EX-UE-9

This is a group of 8 points in both hand, 4 points per each hand. Slightly proximal to the margins of the webs between the fingers, on the border of the red and white skin.

Shangyang LI-1

On the radial side of the index finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the nail corner.