Osteoarthritis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different osteoarthritis patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Osteoarthritis, a common chronic condition, marks the gradual deterioration of joint cartilage. This process leads to the painful and restricted movement of the affected joints, commonly the knees, hips, and fingers. It is characterized by a breakdown of cartilage, changes in the bone, and deterioration of tendons and ligaments, causing pain and stiffness. Unlike other forms of arthritis that involve inflammation, osteoarthritis is primarily associated with wear and tear, making it prevalent among the aging population.
In contrast to Western medicine's focus on physical wear and tear, Traditional Chinese Medicine interprets osteoarthritis as a disruption of the flow of Qi and Blood within the joints, due to imbalances in the body's fundamental substances and disharmony among its organ systems.
This pathology is typically characterized within TCM by patterns of disharmony, each presenting a distinct constellation of symptoms and underlying imbalances that must be identified for targeted treatment. Addressing the specific TCM pattern rather than the symptomatic joint deterioration alone is considered essential for truly effective management of osteoarthritis.
Herbal Formulas for Osteoarthritis
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address osteoarthritis