Chest Stiffnessaccording to TCM

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What is Chest Stiffness?

Chest stiffness encompasses a range of sensations including tightness, discomfort, or a feeling of constriction within the chest area. This condition can manifest variably as mild discomfort or a severe, stifling sensation, sometimes accompanied by difficulty breathing or an urge to sigh deeply. It's a symptom not uncommon in the general population, often associated with stress, physical strain, or underlying medical conditions.

How does TCM View Chest Stiffness?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches chest stiffness as a symptom indicative of an imbalance or blockage within the body's energetic pathways. Unlike Western medicine, which may focus on physical aspects alone, TCM considers emotional, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to the disruption of Qi (vital energy) flow.

Identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony—whether it be Qi Stagnation, Phlegm accumulation, or invasion of External Pathological Factors—is crucial for targeted treatment in TCM, emphasizing the importance of treating both the root cause and the manifesting symptoms.

Root Causes of Chest Stiffness in TCM

In TCM, chest stiffness is often seen as a result of disrupted Qi flow or the accumulation of Phlegm within the body. Such imbalances can stem from emotional stress leading to Qi Stagnation, environmental factors contributing to Phlegm buildup, or dietary habits that impair the spleen's function, responsible for transforming and transporting bodily fluids. These disharmonies may manifest as a stifling sensation in the chest, coupled with symptoms such as dizziness, coughing, and a feeling of oppression. TCM treatments aim to restore harmony and balance, focusing on expelling Phlegm and ensuring the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body.

Explore below more details about what might cause Chest stiffness according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Phlegm
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Heat
  • Wind
  • Dampness
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Mind Disturbance
  • Dryness
  • Summer Heat
  • Cold
Detailed description of the cause

Phlegm

In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more

Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Coughing Shortness Of Breath Wheezing Feeling Of Heaviness Sputum Asthma Limb Numbness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face... see more Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Phlegm in the Channels joints and muscles Stifling sensation in the chest, Skin numbness, Skeletal deformities, Joint stiffness, Arthralgia, Muscle pain Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm, Itchy throat... see more Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Zhi Sou San
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Asthma, Edema, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum Xiao Qing Long Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Chest Distension Sighing Depression Irritability Lack Of Appetite Throat Lumps Mood Swings Irregular Periods

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Stagnation in Chest Chest distention, Chest stiffness, Chest distension, Chest pain, Chest pain improve with massage, Desire for hot beverages and foods, Bleeding during pregnancy... see more Xuan Fu Hua Tang
Pericardium Qi Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Lack of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Liver Qi Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest causing one to have deep sighs, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Qi Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest and abdomen, General fullness, Moving pain, Depression, Irritability, Mood swings, Sighing Yue Ju Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Thirst Bitter Taste In The Mouth Fever Flushed Face Cholecystitis Pneumonia Bile Reflux Gastritis Insomnia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Pericardium Fire Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more Xie Xin Tang | Zi Xue Dan
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Heat in Gall Bladder Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chills with high fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vomiting of sour fluids, Thirst, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Nausea, Upper abdominal fullness, Cholecystitis, Icteric hepatitis, Kidney infection... see more Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Headaches Dizziness Aphasia Coughing And Wheezing With Copious Sputum Noisy Breathing Limb Numbness Itchy Ears Chest Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind-Phlegm Stifling sensation in the chest, Dizziness, Aphasia, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Noisy breathing, Limb numbness... see more Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Feeling Of Heaviness Coughing Pale Face Sputum Shortness Of Breath Discomfort When Lying Down Wheezing Nausea

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Deficiency Chest discomfort, Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory... see more Shen Qi Si Wu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots... see more Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Mind Disturbance

In TCM "Shen" refers to the mind or spirit, and a Shen disturbance is a pattern of disharmony that affects the mental and emotional state. This concept reflects the TCM belief in the deep interconnectedness of mind and body. Symptoms of Shen disturbance can vary widely but often include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, or in severe cases, hallucinations or delirium. These symptoms indicate an imbalance in the body's energies affecting the heart, which in TCM is not only the center of blood circulation but also the seat of the mind and consciousness. The root of Shen disturbance can be traced to various factors, including emotional stress, physical illness, or an imbalance in fundamental substances like Qi, Yin, or Yang.... see more

Mind Disturbance Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Fire Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more Xie Xin Tang | Zi Xue Dan
Detailed description of the cause

Dryness

"Dryness" in TCM refers to a state where there is a lack of moisture in the body, much like how the land feels during a drought. It's a pattern of disharmony that can arise from external factors like dry weather or internal issues, such as insufficient fluid intake or certain lifestyle habits. When your body experiences this dryness, you might notice symptoms like dry skin, a scratchy throat, dry eyes, or even constipation. It's similar to the feeling of being parched or having dry, chapped lips in a very dry climate. TCM views this as an imbalance where the body's yin - often associated with moisture and cooling - is depleted.... see more

Dryness Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face... see more Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Detailed description of the cause

Summer Heat

"Summer-Heat" in TCM is a unique concept that refers to a pattern of disharmony often associated with the hot summer months. Imagine the intense heat of summer stressing your body, like being in a sweltering, humid environment for too long. This can lead to symptoms like feeling overheated, excessive sweating, a feeling of irritation, and sometimes even nausea or dizziness. In TCM, this condition is thought to arise from the external environment's heat affecting the body's internal balance. It's similar to how we might feel uncomfortable and out of sorts on a very hot day. ... see more

Summer Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold Stifling sensation in the chest, Fever, Chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Thirst, Flushed face, Feeling of heaviness, Body pain, Dark urine, Urinary dysfunction... see more Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Chest Distension Shortness Of Breath Chest Pain Insomnia Anxiety Vivid Dreaming Pale Face

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Pericardium Blood Deficiency Chest discomfort, Chest distension, Chest stiffness, Chest pain, Palpitations, Insomnia, Poor memory... see more Shen Qi Si Wu Tang
Pericardium Blood Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Chest pain, Chest distension, Shortness of breath, Purple lips, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots... see more Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Pericardium Fire Stifling sensation in the chest, Palpitations, Bitter taste in the mouth, Insomnia, Thirst, Mouth ulcers, Tongue ulcers, Cardiac burning sensation, Rapid breath, Restlessness, Anxiety, Feeling of heat, Vivid dreaming, Excessive menstruation... see more Xie Xin Tang | Zi Xue Dan
Pericardium Qi Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chest pain, Chest distension, Sighing, Throat lumps, Palpitations, Depression, Irritability, Lack of appetite, Weak limbs, Cold extremities... see more Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Dizziness Coughing Sputum Wheezing Feeling Of Heaviness Pale Face Asthma

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Pale face, Sputum, Shortness of breath, Discomfort when lying down, Wheezing, Nausea, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Profuse white sputum, Asthma, Chest distension... see more Er Chen Tang
Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Dry cough, Scanty sputum, Shortness of breath, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Dry throat, Wheezing, Pale face... see more Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, White and watery sputum, Shortness of breath, Gurgling noise in the chest, Feeling of heaviness, Dizziness, Chills, Cought with sticky phlegm, Itchy throat... see more Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang | Zhi Sou San
Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs Stifling sensation in the chest, Coughing, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Sputum, Feeling of heat, Thirst, Head and body heaviness, Dizziness, Copious thick yellow sputum... see more Er Chen Tang | Wen Dan Tang | Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan | Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang | Qing Xin Li Ge Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San | Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin
Detailed description of the cause

Gallbladder

In TCM the Gallbladder has a unique role in storing and excreting bile, but more importantly, it's seen as crucial for decision-making and courage. It's closely connected to the Liver, assisting in the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and supporting the Liver's role in maintaining emotional balance. When the Gallbladder malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to physical symptoms like gallstones, jaundice, or a bitter taste in the mouth. There might also be digestive disturbances, particularly related to fat metabolism. On an emotional level, a Gallbladder disorder can manifest as indecisiveness, timidity, or a tendency to easily succumb to stress. These symptoms highlight the TCM view of the Gallbladder as integral to both physical processes and emotional resilience.... see more

Gallbladder Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Gall Bladder Stifling sensation in the chest, Mild chills with high fever, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vomiting of sour fluids, Thirst, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Nausea, Upper abdominal fullness, Cholecystitis, Icteric hepatitis, Kidney infection... see more Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Chest Stiffness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation Stifling sensation in the chest causing one to have deep sighs, Hypochondriac distention, Chest distension, Upper abdominal distension, Abdominal distention, Sighing, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Irregular periods, Globus sensation, Pre menstrual breast distension, Pre menstrual tension, Anxiety, Anger... see more Chai Hu Shu Gan San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Chest Stiffness

To address chest stiffness, TCM practitioners may recommend specific formulas and herbs tailored to the identified pattern of imbalance. For Qi and Blood Stagnation, a formula like Xuan Fu Hua Tang might be used to invigorate Blood circulation and dispel Blood Stagnation, thereby alleviating the sensation of chest tightness.

In cases where Phlegm is the culprit, Er Chen Tang could be prescribed to dry Dampness and transform Phlegm, easing the stifling sensation in the chest. These treatments, derived from a thorough diagnostic process, highlight TCM's holistic approach, aiming not only to relieve symptoms but also to correct underlying imbalances.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address chest stiffness, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Phlegm
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Heat
  • Wind
  • Dampness
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Mind Disturbance
  • Dryness
  • Summer Heat
  • Cold
  • Formulas that promote qi movement
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that dispel phlegm
  • Formulas that dispel summer-Heat and resolve exterior
  • Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that regulate blood
  • Formulas that warm and transform phlegm-Cold
  • Formulas that clear heat and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that clear lung-Heat
  • Formulas that clear wind-Cold

All Formulas Recommended for Chest Stiffness Caused by Phlegm

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Bei Mu Gua Lou San Dry-Phlegm in the Lungs
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang Phlegm in the Channels joints and muscles
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Zhi Sou San Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ren Shen Ge Jie San Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Xiao Qing Long Tang Phlegm-Fluids above the diaphragm

All Formulas Recommended for Chest Stiffness Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xuan Fu Hua Tang Qi Stagnation in Chest
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Chest Stiffness Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang Heat in Gall Bladder
Xie Xin Tang Pericardium Fire
Zi Xue Dan Pericardium Fire
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Qing Xin Li Ge Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Ren Shen Ge Jie San Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Pi Pa Qing Fei Yin Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

All Formulas Recommended for Chest Stiffness Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold

All Formulas Recommended for Chest Stiffness Caused by Dampness

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin Early Stage Summerheat with Exterior Wind-Cold

All Formulas Recommended for Chest Stiffness Caused by Mind Disturbance

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Xie Xin Tang Pericardium Fire
Zi Xue Dan Pericardium Fire

All "formulas that promote qi movement" recommended for chest stiffness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ban Xia Hou Pu Tang Pericardium Qi Stagnation
Chai Hu Shu Gan San Liver Qi Stagnation
Yue Ju Wan Qi Stagnation

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for chest stiffness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Xuan Fu Hua Tang Qi Stagnation in Chest
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang Pericardium Blood Stagnation

All "formulas that transform phlegm and extinguish wind" recommended for chest stiffness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang Wind-Phlegm
Zhi Sou San Phlegm-Fluids in the Lungs

All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for chest stiffness

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Er Chen Tang Damp-Phlegm in the Lungs, Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs
Wen Dan Tang Phlegm-Heat in the Lungs

Acupoints for Chest Stiffness

TCM also utilizes acupuncture as a means to relieve chest stiffness, targeting specific acupoints that correspond to the energetic pathways involved. Gongsun SP-4 and Neiguan P-6 are among the acupoints often recommended for this condition. Gongsun SP-4 is known for its ability to harmonize the spleen, stomach, and intestines, thus addressing digestive issues that might contribute to chest discomfort.

Neiguan P-6, on the other hand, is praised for its effectiveness in invigorating Qi and blood in the chest, calming the mind, and subduing rebellious Qi, making it a key point for alleviating chest stiffness and related symptoms.

Explore below some acupoints used to address chest stiffness, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Spleen Channel
  • Pericardium Channel
Gongsun SP-4

Gongsun SP-4

In the depression distal and inferior to the base of the 1st metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Neiguan P-6

Neiguan P-6

2 cun above Daling P-7 on the transverse crease of the wrist, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscle.