"Seeking Ancient Remedies for Stroke-Related Joint and Bone Pain?"

Treatment of Stroke-Induced Bone and Joint Pain in Traditional Chinese Medicine

The assertion that ancient remedies solely target stroke-induced bone and joint pain is inaccurate. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this condition is referred to as "Bi Syndrome," characterized by relaxation and weakness of the limbs, numbness, inability to move freely, or even difficulty in bending and straightening joints, leading to dysfunction of joints and muscles. Treatment modalities encompass herbal medicine, acupuncture, tuina (massage therapy), rehabilitation training, and physical therapy.

1. Herbal Medicine

Treatment should be tailored to individual symptoms based on TCM principles. Formulas such as Fangfeng Decoction and Wutou Decoction may be prescribed. Fangfeng Decoction, composed of Saposhnikovia Root, Ephedra, Cinnamon Twig, Ginger, Apricot Kernel, and Licorice, serves to dispel wind-dampness and promote blood circulation to alleviate pain. Wutou Decoction, containing Astragalus, Angelica Sinensis, Prepared Ginger, and Peony, dispels wind-dampness, warms meridians to dispel cold, and relieves pain by unblocking the channels.

2. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is effective in treating Bi Syndrome. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, such as Yanglingquan and Yangchi, it can unblock meridians, harmonize qi and blood, and dispel cold from the meridians, thereby alleviating pain caused by Bi Syndrome. Additional points like Quchi and Hegu can also be utilized for pain relief.

3. Tuina (Massage Therapy)

Tuina can treat Bi Syndrome by stimulating acupoints along meridians, particularly those along the Bladder Meridian of the Back. This promotes the flow of qi and blood, unblocks meridians, and alleviates pain.

4. Rehabilitation Training

Patients with Bi Syndrome can engage in rehabilitation exercises like Baduanjin and Taijiquan. Baduanjin, a traditional fitness routine, enhances immunity and promotes blood circulation when practiced correctly. Taijiquan, a moderate exercise, strengthens bones and muscles, improving overall constitution.

5. Physical Therapy

Physical therapies including infrared, ultrashort wave, and microwave treatments stimulate acupoints, enhance blood circulation, and alleviate pain associated with Bi Syndrome.

With proper TCM syndrome differentiation treatment and rehabilitation training, most patients with Bi Syndrome experience symptom improvement. Additionally, they should adopt healthy lifestyle habits, avoid late nights, and ensure adequate sleep.