Periarthritis Of The Shoulder in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different periarthritis of the shoulder patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Periarthritis of the shoulder, commonly known as frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically involves a gradual onset of discomfort and limited mobility, potentially culminating in significant difficulty with common motions like reaching or lifting. This can be a result of inflammation in the shoulder capsule, often without a clear initiating event, and it can severely impact daily functioning and quality of life.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a 'pattern' describes a constellation of symptoms and signs reflecting an individual's health imbalance. It is a holistic diagnosis that captures the state of one's Qi, Yin and Yang, and the functional status of organs.
Discerning the specific pattern is crucial as it informs the precise TCM treatment strategy — whether it's selecting appropriate herbs, formulating acupuncture points, or applying other therapeutic modalities — aiming for the restoration of harmony and health within the body.
TCM Patterns for Periarthritis Of The Shoulder
Painful Obstruction with Wind-Cold-Damp
Causes: Swollen and painful joints that are warm to the touch and worsen at night, Reduced range of motion in the affected joints, Chills without sweating, Weight loss, Headaches, Dizziness, Shortness of breath, Nausea
Exterior Cold invading the Interior
Causes: Abdominal pain, Constipation, Hypochondriac pain, Chills, Low-grade fever, Cold hands and feet, Sweating that doesn't reduce fever, Palpitations in the epigastrium, Dizziness, Generalized twitching, Unsteadiness
Yang Deficiency
Insufficient yang qi causing coldness, fatigue, and diminished physiological functions throughout the body
Causes: Generalized body pain, Aching bones and joints, Cold extremities, No thirst, Aversion to cold - especially at the back, Heavy and painful sensations in the lower back and lower extremities, Weakness and stiffness, Aversion to cold, Attraction to warmth, Palpitations, Shortness of breath
Qi Deficiency
Insufficient vital energy causing fatigue, weakness, poor digestion, and reduced function of organs and protective systems
Causes: General sensation of heaviness, Numbness in the extremities, Difficulty in moving, Stiffness in the neck shoulder and upper back
Phlegm
Thick, sticky pathological fluid that obstructs body functions and can manifest anywhere in the body
Causes: Coughing, Asthma, Oedema, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum
Herbal Formulas for Periarthritis Of The Shoulder
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address periarthritis of the shoulder