Symptom family: Facial Pain and discomfort
Pain in the eyebrow, also referred to as eyebrow pain or sore eyebrow, is a discomfort or pain felt in the area above the eye, typically involving the eyebrow region. This type of pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including sinusitis, nerve disorders, infections, or trauma. Symptoms can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain and may be accompanied by other signs such as swelling, redness, or tenderness in the affected area. Understanding the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment and relief.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pain in the eyebrow is understood through the lens of patterns of disharmony. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on specific anatomical causes, TCM looks at the underlying imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, and other vital substances. Symptoms like eyebrow pain can arise from various patterns of disharmony, making it crucial to identify the correct pattern before initiating treatment. This holistic approach aims to address the root causes of pain and restore balance within the body.
In TCM, specific acupoints are used to treat pain in the eyebrow by addressing the underlying patterns of disharmony. In the Gall Bladder Channel, the acupoint Toulinqi GB-15 is commonly used. Located directly above Yangbai GB-14, on the pupil line, 0.5 cun within the hairline, this point calms the mind, subdues Liver Yang, expels Interior Wind, and benefits the eyes.
Another effective acupoint is Zanzhu BL-2 in the Bladder Channel. Situated on the medial extremity of the eyebrow or on the supraorbital notch, Zanzhu BL-2 expels Wind-Heat from the face, subdues Liver Yang Rising, and benefits the eyes. Stimulating these points can help alleviate eyebrow pain by addressing the underlying imbalances and promoting overall well-being.
Explore below some acupoints used to address pain in eyebrow, organized by meridian.
Directly above Yangbai GB-14, on the pupil line, 0.5 cun within the hairline, midway between Shenting DU-24 and Touwei ST-8.
On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.