Finger Painaccording to TCM

What is Finger Pain?

Finger pain encompasses a variety of discomforts in the fingers, ranging from general aches to more acute soreness and cramping. This condition may manifest as joint pain, sore finger joints, or specific discomfort in areas like the little finger. Understanding finger pain requires recognizing its diverse presentations, which often point to underlying issues.

How does TCM View Finger Pain?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches finger pain as an indicator of imbalances or blockages in the body's vital energy, known as Qi, and Blood circulation. TCM links different fingers to specific internal organs and meridians, seeing finger pain as a reflection of disturbances in these pathways.

In TCM, the fingers are viewed as extensions of the body's meridians, and pain is often associated with Qi Stagnation, blood stasis, or imbalances in yin and yang energies. Identifying the specific pattern of disharmony is crucial in TCM before proceeding with a targeted treatment approach.

Acupoints for Finger Pain

TCM suggests several acupoints along the meridians that influence finger health. In the Triple Burner Channel, acupoints like Huizong ST-7, located near the dorsal wrist joint, and Sanyangluo TB-8, positioned between the radius and ulna, are recommended for their effectiveness in removing channel obstructions and benefiting the ears and throat. Waiguan TB-5, another point in this channel, is known for its ability to expel Wind-Heat and alleviate obstructions.

The Extra Points for Upper Extremities include Baxie EX-UE-9, a set of eight points around the finger webs, which are used for their heat-clearing and swelling-reducing properties, as well as for relaxing the sinews. In the Small Intestine Channel, Zhizheng SI-7, located on the forearm line, is employed to open the channel, calm the mind, and address Wind-Heat and Rebellious Qi issues.

Stimulating these acupoints can provide relief from finger pain by promoting smooth Qi and blood flow, aligning with TCM principles for addressing the root causes of discomfort. However, the selection of suitable acupoints and treatment methods should be determined by a TCM practitioner, who can accurately assess the specific disharmony patterns causing the finger pain.

Explore below some acupoints used to address finger pain, organized by meridian.

Waiguan TB-5

2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Huizong ST-7

3 cun proximal to the dorsal wrist joint space and 0.5 cun ulnar to the forearm center.

Sanyangluo TB-8

Between the radius and the ulna, 4 cun above Yangchi TB-4, which is on the dorsal wrist joint space.

Qiangu SI-2

On the ulnar aspect of the little finger, distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint, at the junction of the shaft and the base of the proximal phalanx.

Zhizheng SI-7

5 cun proximal to the wrist, on the line joining Yanggu SI-5 and Xiaohai SI-8.

Baxie EX-UE-9

This is a group of 8 points in both hand, 4 points per each hand. Slightly proximal to the margins of the webs between the fingers, on the border of the red and white skin.