Shoulder Tumorsaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Neoplasms, Tumors and Cancer
Parent symptom: Tumor
What are Shoulder Tumors?
Shoulder tumors encompass a range of abnormal growths that can develop in the tissues around the shoulder area, including muscles, bones, and connective tissues. These growths can be benign, such as lipomas or fibromas, or malignant, like sarcomas. The nature of the tumor can vary widely, affecting mobility and causing discomfort or pain in the shoulder region.
How does TCM view Shoulder Tumors?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches shoulder tumors not just as isolated growths but as manifestations of deeper imbalances within the body's energy system. According to TCM, the formation of tumors is often linked to the Stagnation of Qi (vital energy) and Blood, the accumulation of Phlegm, or the presence of Toxic Heat.
TCM treatments aim to address these underlying issues, seeking to restore harmony and balance to the body's energy flows and eliminate the root causes of the tumor.
Causes of Shoulder Tumors According to TCM
In the TCM framework, shoulder tumors arise due to the disruption of the body’s natural harmony. Key factors include the stagnation of Qi and Blood, which can lead to the formation of masses when not flowing smoothly through the meridians.
Another common cause is the accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm, which, when combined with Heat or Toxic Heat in the body, can manifest as tumors. TCM practitioners assess the individual's overall health, including emotional state, diet, and environmental factors, to identify the specific pattern of disharmony leading to tumor growth.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Shoulder Tumors
To treat shoulder tumors, TCM employs a variety of herbal formulas designed to target the underlying patterns of imbalance. San Zhong Kui Jian Tang, featuring Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bo) as a crucial ingredient, is commonly prescribed to clear Blood Stagnation and Toxic Heat, addressing conditions that lead to the formation of tumors.
By focusing on restoring the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, eliminating Phlegm, and cooling Toxic Heat, these treatments work to reduce the size of tumors and prevent their recurrence, offering a holistic approach to healing and recovery.
See more details below about San Zhong Kui Jian Tang, a herbal formula used to address shoulder tumors.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
Shoulder tumors can be treated by formulas that clear external abscesses and sores if it is due to localized infections or inflammations on the skin.
One such formula is San Zhong Kui Jian Tang, with phellodendron bark as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Shoulder Tumors
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address shoulder tumors, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Shoulder tumors can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bo), a key herb in some formulas recommended for shoulder tumors, like San Zhong Kui Jian Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for shoulder tumors
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Shoulder tumors can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Anemarrhena Rhizomes (Zhi Mu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for shoulder tumors, like San Zhong Kui Jian Tang.