What is Paralysis?

Paralysis, a medical condition characterized by the inability to move one or more muscles, can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. It may affect various parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as arm paralysis, paralysis of the limbs, and lower limb paralysis.

This condition may result from various factors, including neurological issues, spinal cord injuries, or strokes, manifesting as either partial or complete loss of muscle function.

How does TCM view Paralysis?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches paralysis through a holistic lens, emphasizing the disruption in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood within the body. TCM posits that paralysis results from underlying disharmonies and imbalances, such as the invasion of external pathogenic factors (Wind, Cold, Dampness) or internal conditions like Qi and Blood Stagnation.

Recognizing and addressing these specific patterns of disharmony is crucial for treatment, aiming to restore the flow of Qi and Blood, thus improving muscle function and movement.

Root Causes of Paralysis in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to paralysis, with Interior Wind and Phlegm Misting the Heart being among the primary causes. Interior Wind often manifests through symptoms like convulsions, dizziness, and tremors, including facial or limb paralysis. It's typically a result of Liver Yang rising or extreme Heat, disrupting the balance and flow within the body.

On the other hand, Phlegm Misting the Heart is characterized by confusion, slurred speech, and in severe cases, paralysis, indicating a significant obstruction within the body's meridians and impairing the mind's clarity.

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

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
  • Heart
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Common Symptoms: Convulsions Hand Tremor Dizziness Coma Tic Disorder Mouth Deviation Eye Deviation Tremors

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Interior Wind Paralysis, Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Headaches, Limb numbness... see more Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat Paralysis, High fever, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Hand tremor, Opisthotonos Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Misting the Heart Paralysis, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Mind Disturbance

In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more

Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Misting the Heart Paralysis, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat Paralysis, High fever, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Hand tremor, Opisthotonos Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Summer Heat

"Summer-Heat" in TCM is a unique concept that refers to a pattern of disharmony often associated with the hot summer months. Imagine the intense heat of summer stressing your body, like being in a sweltering, humid environment for too long. This can lead to symptoms like feeling overheated, excessive sweating, a feeling of irritation, and sometimes even nausea or dizziness. In TCM, this condition is thought to arise from the external environment's heat affecting the body's internal balance. It's similar to how we might feel uncomfortable and out of sorts on a very hot day. ... see more

Summer Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Summer-Heat entering the Lesser Yin and Terminal Yin warps Paralysis, Wasting, Thirst, Cardiac burning sensation, Irritability, Restlessness, Loss of consciousness, Mental disturbances, Muscle numbness, Muscle spasm... see more Wu Shi Lian Mei Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat Paralysis, High fever, Convulsions, Stiff neck, Hand tremor, Opisthotonos Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Paralysis

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Phlegm Misting the Heart Paralysis, Confusion, Loss of consciousness, Hypersomnia, Incoherent or confused speech, Slurred speech, Aphasia, Noisy breathing, Vomit... see more Wen Dan Tang | Di Tan Tang | Gun Tan Wan | Su He Xiang Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas for Paralysis

In treating paralysis, TCM relies on formulas that address the specific patterns identified. For Interior Wind, Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin is recommended, utilizing Gastrodia Rhizomes (Tian Ma) to pacify Liver Wind and stop tremors. This formula is beneficial for symptoms like high fever, convulsions, and paralysis due to Liver Wind agitating internally due to Heat.

For conditions arising from Phlegm Misting the Heart, Wen Dan Tang, featuring Crow-Dipper Rhizomes (Ban Xia), is used to clear Phlegm and open the orifices of the Heart, addressing issues like incoherent speech and paralysis.

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

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that dispel wind-Damp
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that warm and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and preserve body fluids

All Formulas Recommended for Paralysis Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Paralysis Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Misting the Heart
Di Tan Tang Phlegm Misting the Heart
Gun Tan Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart
Su He Xiang Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart

All Formulas Recommended for Paralysis Caused by Mind Disturbance

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm Misting the Heart
Di Tan Tang Phlegm Misting the Heart
Gun Tan Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart
Su He Xiang Wan Phlegm Misting the Heart

All Formulas Recommended for Paralysis Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat

All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for paralysis

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to extreme Heat
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for paralysis

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for paralysis

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind

Acupoints for Paralysis

TCM also incorporates acupuncture as part of the treatment for paralysis, targeting specific acupoints to restore the flow of Qi and Blood. Futu ST-32, located on the thigh, is effective in removing obstructions from the Channel, expelling Wind and Dampness, and aiding in the recovery of limb function.

Jianyu LI-15, found near the shoulder, plays a crucial role in resolving Phlegm and ensuring the smooth flow of Qi and Blood throughout the body, particularly beneficial for arm paralysis. These acupoints, among others, are integral to TCM's holistic approach to treating paralysis, aiming to address the root causes and promote healing and recovery.

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

  • By Meridian
  • Stomach Channel
  • Large Intestine Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Extra Points: Lower Extremities (EX-LE)
  • Extra Points: Head and Neck (EX-HN)
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Spleen Channel
Futu ST-32

Futu ST-32

6 cun superior to the upper-lateral border of the patella, on the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and upper lateral border of the patella.

Xiajuxu ST-39

Xiajuxu ST-39

9 cun below Dubi ST-35, about one middle finger-width lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.

Shousanli LI-10

Shousanli LI-10

When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 2 cun distal to Quchi LI-11 of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.

Jianyu LI-15

Jianyu LI-15

Jianyu LI-15 is located antero-inferior to the acromion, between the clavicular and acromial portions of the deltoid muscle.

Waiguan TB-5

Waiguan TB-5

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

Zhigou TB-6

Zhigou TB-6

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

Dannang EX-LE-6

Dannang EX-LE-6

On the Gall Bladder Channel of the right leg, about 1-2 cun below Yanglingquan GB-34. Around there, palpate and locate Dannang EX-LE-6 at the most tender point.

Lanwei EX-LE-7

Lanwei EX-LE-7

On the Stomach Channel of the right leg, Lanwei EX-LE-7 is about 2 cun distal to Zusanli ST-36, in the most tender point of that area.

Jingbi EX-HN

Jingbi EX-HN

1 cun above the junction of the proximal and middle third of the clavicle.

Quze P-3

Quze P-3

On the transverse cubital crease, at the ulnar side of the tendon of biceps brachii muscle.

Lougu SP-7

Lougu SP-7

6 cun above the tip of the medial malleolus, 3 cun above Sanyinjiao SP-6.