Upper Arm Painaccording to TCM

What is Upper Arm Pain?

Upper arm pain refers to discomfort or aching located in the region between the shoulder and the elbow. This pain can manifest as sharp, stabbing sensations or a dull, constant ache, and may be accompanied by stiffness, swelling, or restricted movement. Upper arm pain can result from a variety of causes, including muscle strains, tendinitis, fractures, or nerve compression. It can significantly impact daily activities, making tasks that involve arm movement particularly challenging.

How does TCM view Upper Arm Pain?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches upper arm pain by considering it a manifestation of underlying imbalances within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on physical or structural causes, TCM looks at patterns of disharmony such as Qi And Blood Stagnation, Dampness accumulation, or Deficiencies in vital energies. Identifying the correct pattern is crucial for effective treatment, as TCM aims to address the root cause of the pain rather than just alleviating the symptoms.

Acupoints for Upper Arm Pain

In TCM, acupuncture is a key modality for treating upper arm pain, using specific acupoints to restore balance and promote healing. In the Large Intestine Channel, Binao LI-14 is located on the radial side of the humerus, superior to the lower end of the deltoid muscle. This acupoint helps remove obstructions from the channel and benefits the eyes. Another important point is Jugu LI-16, found in the upper aspect of the shoulder, which removes obstructions from the channel. Shouwuli LI-13, located superior to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, also plays a role in regulating Qi and resolving Dampness and Phlegm.

In the Small Intestine Channel, Jianzhen SI-9 is posterior and inferior to the shoulder joint and helps to open the channel. Xiaohai SI-8, located between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus, is effective in removing Damp-Heat. Lastly, Yanglao SI-6, found dorsal to the head of the ulna, is known for its ability to ease pain and benefit the eyes. By stimulating these acupoints, TCM practitioners aim to alleviate upper arm pain, improve circulation, and restore harmony within the body.

Explore below some acupoints used to address upper arm pain, organized by meridian.

Shouwuli LI-13

Superior to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, 3 cun above Quchi LI-11, on the line connecting Quchi LI-11 and Jianyu LI-15.

Binao LI-14

On the radial side of the humerus, superior to the lower end of deltoid muscle, on the line connecting Quchi LI-11 and Jianyu LI-15, 7 cun proximal to Quchi LI-11.

Jugu LI-16

In the upper aspect of the shoulder, in the depression between the acromio-clavicular joint and the scapular spine.

Yanglao SI-6

Dorsal to the head of the ulna. When the palm faces the chest, Yanglao SI-6 is in the bony depression on the radial side of the styloid process of the ulna.

Xiaohai SI-8

Between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus.

Jianzhen SI-9

Posterior and inferior to the shoulder joint. When the arm is adducted, Jianzhen SI-9 is 1 cun above the posterior end of the axillary fold. Naoshu SI-10 is located directly above Jianzhen SI-9.