Thoracic Strain in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different thoracic strain patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Thoracic strain refers to a condition where muscles in the chest area are stretched, torn, or otherwise injured, leading to discomfort and pain. This type of strain is commonly a result of physical overexertion, poor posture, or trauma.
Symptoms may include sharp or dull pain in the chest area, particularly when moving or breathing deeply, and can significantly impact daily activities and overall well-being.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets thoracic strain through the lens of energy flow and balance in the body. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on the physical aspects of muscle strain, TCM considers both the physical and energetic implications.
In TCM, thoracic strain is often seen as a disruption of Blood flow in the chest area, resulting from external factors like injury or internal imbalances. Treatment in TCM involves restoring harmony and balance to the body's energies.
TCM Patterns for Thoracic Strain
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause thoracic strain
Stomach Blood Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Wiry (Xian)
Purple
Recommended herbal formulas
Pericardium Blood Stagnation
Diagnostic signs
Knotted (Jie), Wiry (Xian)
Purple on the side of the entire tongue
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Thoracic Strain
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address thoracic strain