Bi (obstruction)
Joint pain
Stiff, aching knees and joints. Pattern diagnosis by how the pain behaves with weather and activity, with acupuncture, moxibustion and exercise advice.
When people come in
- Morning stiffness
- Worse with weather changes or cold
- Knee pain on stairs
The Chinese medicine view
TCM calls joint pain bi: wind, cold and damp block the channels, and long-standing cases weaken the Liver and Kidney.
Common patterns
Wind-damp
Wandering pain, heaviness
Cold
Cold ache eased by warmth
Heat
Red, hot, swollen
Liver and Kidney deficiency
Weak back and knees, long-standing
Patterns are identified by a practitioner through all four examinations. They are here to explain the thinking, not for self-diagnosis.
The medical view
Joint pain may be osteoarthritis, or conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout that need medical diagnosis and medication. Hot, swollen joints, several painful joints, or morning stiffness over an hour should be seen by a doctor first.
A suddenly hot, swollen joint or fever: seek prompt medical care.
What the consultation covers
Location, triggers and any diagnosis guide acupuncture, moxibustion or herbs, with suitable strength exercises.
Therapies that may be discussed: Moxibustion
What to bring
- Diagnosis and blood tests, if any
- Pain or anti-inflammatory medication
- Daily activity level
Questions
Can I stop my prescribed joint medication?
No; TCM care can run alongside it.
Why is it worse in humid weather?
TCM calls it damp: heavy and sticky, it settles in the joints.
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