Torticollisaccording to TCM
Symptom families: Neck Disorders and Symptoms, Back and Neck Pain
What is Torticollis?
Torticollis, commonly known as wry neck or twisted neck, is a condition characterized by an abnormal, asymmetrical head or neck position, which may arise due to a variety of causes, including muscular or skeletal abnormalities, nerve dysfunction, or other health issues. It can result in a painful, stiff neck, and the individual's head may tilt to one side, forward, or backward, making it a distressing and often debilitating condition.
How Does TCM View Torticollis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) regards torticollis as a disruption of the flow of Qi, the body's vital energy, often caused by external pathogenic factors such as Wind-Cold invading the neck muscles.
TCM emphasizes the importance of identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony causing the symptoms, as different imbalances require different treatment approaches.
Causes of Torticollis According to TCM
Within the TCM framework, torticollis is often attributed to the invasion of Wind-Cold, which can lead to the stagnation of Qi and Blood in the neck channels. Such an invasion is typically thought to occur when the body's Defensive Qi is compromised, often due to exposure to cold weather, draft, or a weakened physical condition.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Torticollis
To address torticollis, TCM suggests using formulas that clear Wind-Cold from the body.
Ge Gen Tang, incorporating Kudzu Roots (Ge Gen), is selected for its properties to release the Exterior and target the Spleen and Stomach, helping alleviate muscle stiffness.
Additionally, Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang, with its key component Notopterygium Roots (Qiang Huo), is employed for its warming action that dispels cold and targets the Bladder and Kidney Channels, thus easing the symptoms of torticollis.
The application of these formulas is tailored to the individual's specific TCM diagnosis to ensure effective relief.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address torticollis, organized by formula type.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that clear wind-Cold
Formulas that clear Wind-Cold
Torticollis can be treated by these formulas when it stems from external pathogenic influences characterized by cold and wind symptoms.
One such formula is Ge Gen Tang, with kudzu root as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear wind-Cold" recommended for torticollis
| Formula | Key herbs |
|---|---|
| Ge Gen Tang | Kudzu Roots (Ge Gen) |
| Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang | Notopterygium Roots (Qiang Huo) |
TCM Herbs for Torticollis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address torticollis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
- Warm/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Torticollis can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Kudzu Roots (Ge Gen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for torticollis, like Ge Gen Tang.
Warm/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Torticollis can be treated by these herbs when there is a need to dispel external cold and warm the body, especially in cases where there is insufficient Yang energy internally.
One such herb is Notopterygium Roots (Qiang Huo), a key herb in some formulas recommended for torticollis, like Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang.