1. Causes
Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for more than three months, often beyond the expected healing period. It may originate from injury, illness, nerve dysfunction, or no clear cause at all. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), chronic pain is usually associated with Qi and blood stagnation, deficiency of liver, kidney, or spleen, or internal retention of cold, damp, or phlegm.
2. Underlying Factors
– Poorly healed injuries or post-surgical complications
– Chronic inflammatory or autoimmune conditions (e.g., arthritis)
– Neuropathic disorders (e.g., sciatica, postherpetic neuralgia)
– Poor posture, lifestyle habits, or sleep deprivation
– Emotional distress, anxiety, or depression amplifying pain perception
– Qi and blood deficiency impairing tissue nourishment
– Cold or damp retention blocking meridian circulation
3. Symptoms
– Persistent pain lasting three months or longer
– Pain may be dull, sharp, burning, or throbbing
– Fatigue, poor sleep, or reduced physical function
– Depression, anxiety, or emotional instability
– Muscle tension, joint stiffness, or nerve sensitivity
– Decreased ability to enjoy or perform daily activities
4. Treatment Options
– Physiotherapy: Restores strength, flexibility, and body awareness
– Acupuncture: Regulates nervous system, eases pain, and restores energy flow
– Herbal medicine: Tonifies organs, moves blood, and dispels internal obstructions
– Manual therapy: Fascia release, massage, and posture correction
– Moxibustion: Warms and strengthens yang in cold-type chronic pain
– Lifestyle support: Mind-body techniques, diet, and personalized pain management plans
5. At-Home Tips
– Establish a regular sleep routine to support recovery
– Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or tai chi
– Apply heat or cold packs based on pain type and TCM diagnosis
– Use supportive cushions or braces for joints when needed
– Maintain gentle physical activity to prevent deconditioning
– Recommended products: Massagers, herbal balms, heat patches, ergonomic support tools
