muscle pain

Muscle Pain - Traditional Chinese Medicine as a Natural Support

Muscle pain can be the result of intense physical exertion, stress, overload, but also inflammation or chronic tension. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a wide range of natural methods that help relieve muscle pain and support the body's regeneration. In this article, we will look at how the use of herbs, acupressure, and Qigong exercises can help relieve muscle tension and improve overall well-being.

1. Herbal medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbs have been used for centuries to relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and support the circulation of Qi (life energy) and blood.

Most commonly used herbs for muscle pain:

Dang Gui (Angelica Root) – improves blood circulation and helps reduce inflammation.

Du Huo (Angelica pubescens root) – ideal for rheumatic pain, has a warming effect and reduces joint and muscle pain.

Gui Zhi (Cinnamon) – warms the body and supports energy circulation, which is key when treating pain associated with cold and damp.

Jiang Huang (turmeric) – has anti-inflammatory effects, accelerates tissue regeneration and reduces muscle stiffness.

A simple recipe for an analgesic infusion:

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon angelica root, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon turmeric.

Preparation: Pour 400 ml of hot water over the herbs, brew for 15 minutes. Drink twice a day, especially after physical exertion or during periods of muscle tension.

2. Acupressure

Acupressure is a technique of massaging acupuncture points that helps relax muscles and relieve pain. It is worth finding a few points on the body that are directly related to reducing muscle tension and pain.

Key points for muscle pain:

GB34 (Yanglingquan) – located on the outside of the knee. It is particularly effective in relieving pain in the calf and thigh muscles.

LI4 (Hegu) – a point on the palm, between the thumb and forefinger. Helps with general muscle pain, relaxes and removes Qi blockages.

ST36 (Zusanli) – located below the kneecap. Strengthens the body's overall immunity and relieves muscle pain.

How to use: Press the selected point for 1-2 minutes using moderate pressure in gentle circular motions. Repeat 2-3 times daily for best results.

3. Qigong exercises

Qigong is a Chinese exercise system that helps harmonize the flow of energy in the body, increasing flexibility and muscle strength. Regular practice of Qigong can improve the flow of blood and Qi, which is key to preventing and treating muscle tension.

Simple Qigong exercise to relax muscles:

Stand with your legs slightly apart, arms hanging down along your body.

Take a deep breath and raise your arms up, imagining that you are drawing energy from the earth.

Exhale as you lower your arms and gently knead your shoulders and chest, helping to release tension.

Repeat the exercise 10 times, focusing on calm, deep breathing.

4. Support of Western medicine

Combining TCM methods with Western medicine often brings the best results. In the case of severe muscle inflammation, it is worth considering oral anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or topical painkillers available in pharmacies. Remember, however, that TCM focuses on long-term effects, so regular practice of Qigong, the use of herbs and acupressure can help prevent the problem from returning.

Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers effective methods that can support the treatment and prevention of muscle pain. By using herbs, acupressure points and practicing Qigong, you can improve the flow of energy, relax muscles and strengthen the body. Remember, regularity is key - it not only brings relief, but also strengthens the body for the future.

If you experience chronic muscle pain or suffer from other conditions, it is worth consulting a Chinese medicine practitioner and your family doctor to tailor your treatment to your individual needs.

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