Weakness Of Lower Extremitiesaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Legs disorders and Symptoms
Sub-symptom(s): Weak Legs
What is Weakness of Lower Extremities?
Weakness of the lower extremities refers to a reduction in the strength and ability to perform movements using the legs and feet. This condition can range from a mild decrease in muscle power to a severe incapacity to use the limbs effectively.
It can result from various medical conditions, including neurological disorders, muscular diseases, and circulatory problems. Recognizing and addressing the underlying causes are crucial for managing and improving this condition.
How Does TCM View Weakness of Lower Extremities?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches weakness of the lower extremities as a manifestation of underlying imbalances within the body’s Qi (energy), Blood, and organ systems. TCM posits that such weakness often arises from Deficiencies or Stagnations affecting the body's vital substances, leading to impaired nourishment and function of the limbs.
Identifying and treating the specific disharmonies, according to TCM principles, is essential for restoring strength and vitality to the lower extremities.
Root Causes of Weakness Of Lower Extremities in TCM
In TCM, weakness of the lower extremities is often attributed to Qi Stagnation and Yang Deficiency, each presenting distinct patterns and symptoms. Qi Stagnation, characterized by Blood and Qi Deficiency with Blood Stagnation, manifests as weak limbs, lower back pain, and abdominal distention.
Yang Deficiency, particularly Kidney Yang Deficiency, results in symptoms such as coldness, dizziness, and weakness in the legs. Additionally, Dampness, manifesting as Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner, can lead to swollen knees, red and swollen feet, and weakness in the lower extremities. TCM treatments focus on the underlying patterns to effectively alleviate symptoms.
Explore below more details about what might cause Weakness of lower extremities according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Yang Deficiency
- Qi Stagnation
- Blood Stasis
- View More Causes
Yang Deficiency
Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more
Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Weakness Of Lower Extremities
Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Weak And Cold Knees Chills Weak Legs Bright Pale Face Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Leg Edema
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Yang Deficiency | Weakness of the lower extremities, Weak legs, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Weak and cold knees, Lower back coldness, Chills, Bright pale face, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Low sex drive, Pale and abudant urination, Constipation... see more | Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan | Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan | Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | You Gui Wan | Er Xian Tang | Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Tu Si Zi Wan | Ji Chuan Jian | Yu Lin Zhu |
| Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency | Weak legs, Lower back pain, Weak and cold knees, Back cold sensation, Chills, Bright pale face, Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Oligospermia, Watery ejaculate, Low sex drive, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Clear urination, Nocturia, Apathy, Leg edema, Female infertility, Diarrhea, Depression, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distention, Desire to lie down... see more | Li Zhong Wan | Huan Shao Dan |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Weakness Of Lower Extremities
TCM recommends various formulas and herbs to treat weakness in the lower extremities, tailored to address the specific patterns identified. For Qi Stagnation and Blood Deficiency, Ba Zhen Yi Mu Tang, which includes Motherwort Herbs (Yi Mu Cao), is used to tonify and invigorate the blood.
To combat Kidney Yang Deficiency, formulas like Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan and Shen Qi Wan, both containing Prepared Aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), are employed to warm Yang and fortify the kidneys. For issues of Dampness leading to weakness, Er Miao San, with Phellodendron bark (Huang Bo), is utilized to expel dampness and clear heat. These treatments aim to rebalance the body’s energies, strengthen the limbs, and restore health.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address weakness of lower extremities, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Yang Deficiency
- Qi Stagnation
- Blood Stasis
- View More Causes
Top Formula for Yang Deficiency:
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan
Suitable for Yang Deficiency patterns that may cause weakness of lower extremities, such as Kidney Yang Deficiency
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Weakness Of Lower Extremities Caused by Yang Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Ba Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| You Gui Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Er Xian Tang | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Tu Si Zi Wan | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Ji Chuan Jian | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Yu Lin Zhu | Kidney Yang Deficiency |
| Li Zhong Wan | Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency |
| Huan Shao Dan | Kidney and Spleen Yang Deficiency |
Acupoints for Weakness Of Lower Extremities
Explore below some acupoints used to address weakness of lower extremities, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Bladder Channel
- Stomach Channel
- Extra Points: Lower Extremities (EX-LE)
Tianzhu BL-10
1.3 cun lateral to Yamen DU-15 on the posterior midline, 0.5 cun above the posterior hairline, on the lateral side of trapezius muscle.
Chengjin BL-56
5 cun inferior to Weizhong BL-40 which is the midpoint of the popliteal crease. In the center of the belly of gastrocnemius muscle, midway between Heyang BL-55 and Chengshan BL-57.
Chengshan BL-57
Directly below the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle and between the two heads of the muscle, on the line connecting Weizhong BL-40 and Kunlun BL-60, about 8 cun below Weizhong BL-40.
