Hand Numbnessaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Hand Issues
What is Hand Numbness?
Hand numbness is a condition characterized by a lack of sensation or a tingling feeling in the hands. Known medically as paresthesia, it can range from a mild, temporary sensation to a chronic issue, indicating various underlying health concerns.
Hand numbness is often accompanied by other sensations like pins and needles, tingling, or a burning feeling. It can be caused by various factors, including nerve compression, poor circulation, or as a symptom of systemic diseases such as diabetes.
How does TCM view Hand Numbness?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches hand numbness differently from Western medicine. In TCM, this symptom is often seen as a manifestation of an imbalance in the body's energy flow, or Qi. This could be due to blocked meridians, which are pathways through which Qi flows, or due to imbalances in Yin and Yang energies.
Hand numbness is not just a localized issue but is often indicative of a deeper systemic imbalance. Diagnosing the root cause in terms of TCM patterns is essential for effective treatment. These patterns could be related to factors like internal dampness, Blood Stagnation, or Qi Deficiency.
Acupoints for Hand Numbness
In TCM, specific acupoints can be used to address hand numbness. One effective point is Baxie EX-UE-9, located slightly proximal to the webs between the fingers. This point is effective for clearing Heat and reducing swelling, as well as relaxing the sinews, making it useful in treating numbness due to inflammation or overuse.
Another important acupoint is Zhigou TB-6, found on the Triple Burner Channel, 3 cun above the dorsal wrist joint space. This point helps in regulating Qi, removing stagnation, and expelling Wind-Heat, which can be beneficial for treating hand numbness caused by Qi Stagnation or Heat in the body. Acupuncture at these points is often combined with other TCM treatments like herbal medicine to address the underlying disharmony causing the symptom.
Explore below some acupoints used to address hand numbness, organized by meridian.
- By Meridian
- Extra Points: Upper Extremities (EX-UE)
- Triple Burner Channel
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.
