Osteoporosisaccording to TCM

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a progressive condition where bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue, typically as a result of hormonal changes, or deficiency of calcium or vitamin D. This weakening of the bones increases the risk of fractures, particularly in the wrist, hip, and spine.

Often called the ‘silent disease’ because it can progress unnoticed until a fracture occurs, osteoporosis is a major health concern, especially for the elderly, affecting both mobility and quality of life.

How does TCM view Osteoporosis?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), understanding the "pattern" of a condition is essential. A pattern is a diagnostic framework that captures the unique constellation of signs and symptoms presented by an individual. For osteoporosis, TCM may identify patterns such as Qi And Blood Stagnation or Kidney Yang Deficiency.

Recognizing these patterns is crucial, as they guide the practitioner to the most effective, individualized treatment. It is a TCM tenet that treating the pattern, rather than the symptom, addresses the root of the condition, leading to more sustainable healing.

Causes of Osteoporosis According to TCM

From the perspective of TCM, osteoporosis can be caused by Qi And Blood Stagnation or a Deficiency in Kidney Qi or Kidney Yang. Qi And Blood Stagnation lead to an inadequate supply of nourishing substances to the bones, while Kidney Qi not Firm or Kidney Yang Deficiency reflects a deeper depletion of the body's vital energy, which is essential for maintaining bone strength and density. These patterns underscore the TCM belief that bone health is a reflection of the body's overall energetic balance.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Osteoporosis

Within TCM, herbal formulas are tailored to treat the specific patterns leading to osteoporosis. To address Qi And Blood Stagnation, a formula like Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang, which includes Peach Kernels to invigorate the blood, may be used.

When osteoporosis is rooted in Kidney Qi or Yang Deficiency, a warming and tonifying formula such as You Gui Wan, with herbs like Prepared aconite, is often prescribed. These formulas are central to the TCM approach of treating osteoporosis by restoring the body's energetic harmony and thus supporting bone health.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address osteoporosis, organized by formula type.

Acupoints for Osteoporosis

TCM also incorporates acupuncture in the management of osteoporosis, focusing on acupoints that are believed to bolster the Kidneys and improve the flow of Qi and blood. Shenshu BL-23, located near the lower spine, is a vital point for tonifying Kidney Qi and Yang, nourishing the essence that supports bone strength, and promoting the overall vitality necessary for maintaining healthy bones. The treatment aims to mitigate the underlying deficiencies and stagnations that, according to TCM, lead to the development of osteoporosis.

See more details below about Shenshu BL-23, an acupoint used to address osteoporosis.

Shenshu BL-23

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2).

TCM Herbs for Osteoporosis

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address osteoporosis, organized by herb category.