Unsteadiness in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different unsteadiness patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
Unsteadiness is a disruption in one's balance, a sensation of instability that can lead to difficulty in maintaining proper orientation in space. This can manifest as an unstable gait, a spinning feeling, or a general lack of stability, potentially affecting daily activities. Whether transient or chronic, unsteadiness is not only a physical condition but can also be a significant source of anxiety, contributing to a cautious approach to movement and, at times, social withdrawal.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches unsteadiness as a symptom of an imbalance within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on treating the symptom directly, TCM seeks to understand the underlying disharmony—be it a Deficit or Excess in Qi (energy), Blood, Yin, or Yang.
The holistic view in TCM emphasizes the importance of restoring equilibrium through various methods, tailored to the individual's specific pattern of imbalance.
TCM Patterns for Unsteadiness
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause unsteadiness
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Weak (Ruo)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Diagnostic signs
Tight (Jin), Wiry (Xian)
Accompanying symptoms you may experience
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Unsteadiness
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address unsteadiness