Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approaches to Acute Injuries

Types of Acute Injuries

• Sprained ankle
• Strained wrist
• Injuries from activities like skiing, biking, or falls

Symptoms and Corresponding TCM Theories

1. Pain

   • Description: Stabbing, acute pain localized to the injured area
   • TCM Term: Blood stasis
   • Visual Cue: Purple bruising, quick onset of purple coloration

2. Swelling

   • Description: Swelling in the injured area
   • TCM Term: Dampness

3. Inflammation

   • Description: Area is hot to the touch, indicating inflammation
   • TCM Term: Excess heat

Conventional Medicine vs TCM Perspective

• Conventional Medicine: Use of ice to reduce inflammation
• TCM: Generally avoid ice as it blocks circulation; focus on promoting circulation

TCM Treatment Approaches

1. Move Blood (Address Blood Stasis)

   • Points:
     • LI4 (relieves pain)
     • Liver 3 (moves Qi and blood)

2. Remove Dampness (Reduce Swelling)

   • Points:
     • Spleen 9

3. Heat Reduction (Address Inflammation)

   • Points:
     • LI11

4. Tendons, Ligaments, and Joints

   • Points:
     • Gallbladder 34 (influential point for sinews)

Additional Points for Acute Injuries

• Healing Process: Stomach 36 (promotes faster healing)
• Local and Distal Points: Combine local points with distal points to enhance effect

Timing of Treatment

• Immediate Treatment: Faster recovery if treated as soon as possible after injury
• Delayed Treatment: Longer recovery time depending on factors like age, deficiency, and weakness

Important Considerations

• Avoid local points if the area is too painful; use distal points instead
• Adapt treatment based on patient's condition and response