Skin Streakingaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Dermatological Conditions & Symptoms
What is Skin Streaking?
Skin streaking, also known as lymphangitic streaking, is a medical symptom characterized by red, linear marks on the skin that often indicate an infection or inflammation spreading through the lymph vessels. These streaks usually emanate from an area of infection or injury and may progress toward regional lymph nodes.
Skin streaking is commonly associated with conditions like cellulitis and can be a sign of bacterial infection. It's important to seek medical attention when skin streaking occurs, as it can indicate serious underlying health issues that may require prompt treatment.
How Does TCM View Skin Streaking?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches skin streaking from a holistic perspective, differing from Western medicine. In TCM, skin streaking is seen as a manifestation of internal disharmonies, often involving the stagnation of Qi (vital energy) and Blood.
It may also be viewed as a result of pathogenic factors like Heat or Dampness invading the body and disrupting the natural flow of Qi and Blood. TCM aims to identify and correct these imbalances through various techniques, including herbal medicine and acupuncture, thereby treating the root cause of skin streaking.
Acupoints for Skin Streaking
In TCM, specific acupoints are targeted to address skin streaking and its underlying causes. Acupoints such as Chongyang ST-42, Fenglong ST-40, and Lidui ST-45 on the Stomach Channel are considered effective for this condition.
Chongyang ST-42 is known for its actions in tonifying the Stomach and Spleen and calming the Mind, while Fenglong ST-40 resolves Dampness and Phlegm, calms the Mind, and subdues Rebellious Qi. Lidui ST-45 is used for its Heat-clearing properties and its ability to calm the Mind and restore consciousness. Stimulating these points can help restore the harmonious flow of Qi and Blood, addressing the root causes of skin streaking in TCM.
Explore below some acupoints used to address skin streaking, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Stomach Channel
Fenglong ST-40
Midway between Dubi ST-35 and Jiexi ST-41, two middle finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia, or one middle finger-width from Tiaokou ST-38.
Chongyang ST-42
Distal to Jiexi ST-41, at the highest point of the dorsum of foot, between the tendons of the extensor hallucis longus and the extensor digitorum longus, directly lateral to the point where the dorsalis pedis artery may be palpated. The point is bordered proximally by the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones and distally by the 2nd and 3rd cuneiform bones.
