Contusion in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different contusion patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
A contusion, commonly known as a bruise, is a type of hematoma of tissue where capillaries and sometimes venules are damaged by trauma, allowing blood to seep, hemorrhage, or extravasate into the surrounding interstitial tissues. Typically, contusions are characterized by skin discoloration, pain, and swelling.
They are generally caused by blunt force trauma, which crushes underlying muscle fibers and connective tissue without breaking the skin. Sub-symptoms like cerebral contusion can occur in more severe cases, involving deeper bruising and potential complications.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives contusions as injuries to the body's Qi (vital energy) and Blood. These injuries are seen as disruptions to the harmonious flow of these elements, leading to stagnation and accumulation of Blood outside the vessels, visible as bruises.
TCM emphasizes restoring the balance and smooth flow of Qi and Blood to heal the contusion. It views such injuries as disturbances in the body's energetic system, requiring a holistic approach to treatment that addresses both the physical trauma and its impact on the body's energy pathways.
TCM Patterns for Contusion
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause contusion
Heat and Blood Stagnation in the Lower Burner
Diagnostic signs
Choppy (Se), Full (Shi)
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Contusion
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address contusion