Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a rich history spanning several millennia in treating bruises and contusions, and its treatment philosophy differs significantly from that of Western medicine. For instance, Western medicine practitioners often use ice packs to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the early stages of an injury, which contrasts with the TCM approach.
From the TCM perspective, bruises and contusions can be classified as “external injuries” and “internal injuries.” External injuries, such as sprains, fractures, and dislocations, primarily refer to damage to the external muscles, bones, and skin. Internal injuries, on the other hand, involve harm to the internal organs’ qi and blood—the fundamental substances that constitute and sustain human life—resulting in organ dysfunction. Symptoms arising from such injuries may include chest discomfort, qi stagnation, coughing, and insomnia.
Potential Drawbacks of Ice Therapy
According to TCM, meridians are the channels through which energy flows in the human body. They are responsible for transporting qi and blood throughout the body. Qi and blood originate from the tissues and organs, continuously flowing within the body. Ensuring an ample supply of these essential substances and their circulation is crucial for maintaining good health. When there is an imbalance, stagnation, or deficiency of qi and blood in the body, diseases or other conditions may develop.Based on my clinical observations, applying ice directly to a fresh injury can lead to local stagnation of qi and blood, as well as cold-induced tension and contraction of muscles, ligaments, and fascia. While this approach may temporarily stop bleeding and alleviate pain, it can impede recovery. For example, it may contribute to persistent soreness and discomfort in the affected area (known in TCM as Wind-Cold-Dampness Bi Syndrome), hindering overall healing.
TCM Principles in Treating Bruises and Contusions
The most effective method in TCM for healing injuries and relieving pain involves combining manipulation techniques and herbal medicine, addressing both internal and external factors.1. Manipulation Techniques for Tendon Regulation
In injury treatment, TCM primarily focuses on “tendon regulation.” The most direct and practical approach for treating bruises and contusions involves various manipulation techniques. These techniques enhance the smooth circulation of qi and blood, balance excesses or deficiencies, and facilitate rapid self-healing.2. Prioritizing the Flow of Qi and Blood in External Injury Treatment
Bone injuries and diseases are often accompanied by qi stagnation and blood stasis. External forces can damage muscles, impairing the meridians and vessels. This disruption leads to mutual obstruction of qi and blood, hindering their smooth flow and resulting in blood stasis and swelling. In TCM, the swelling and pain associated with bone injuries are believed to arise from impeded qi and blood flow. Therefore, the primary focus of treatment should be ensuring the smooth flow of qi and blood, allowing the swelling and pain to subside naturally.Herbal Therapy to Prevent Long-Term Complications
In TCM, the treatment of fractures with herbal medicine varies depending on the location of the injury, the strength of the patient’s constitution, and the severity of the fracture. Generally speaking, the treatment of fractures is divided into three stages.Stage 1: Immediately After Fracture
It is crucial to use TCM medications that help disperse blood stasis to prevent the formation of blood clots from the blood, tissue fluid, and fat leaked after a fracture, which could pose potential risks like stroke or heart attack. Tu Bie Chong can be used for younger patients, while “danshen” and “sanqi” are suitable for older individuals. In the early stages of a fracture, when pain is intense, frankincense and myrrh can be applied to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Typically, the prescription for promoting qi and blood circulation and removing blood stasis must be taken for about three to five days.Stage 2: When Bruising and Swelling Subside
In TCM, the liver is believed to govern the tendons, and the kidneys govern the bones. Taking medications that tonify the liver and kidneys, such as Gu Sui Bu, Bu Gu Zhi, and Xu Duan, is advisable to expedite the recovery of tendons and bones. Among the prescriptions that promote bone healing, a crucial component is native copper. Native copper, originating from natural pyrite, primarily consists of iron disulfide. Therefore, iron is the key element for promoting bone healing, in contrast to the commonly believed calcium.Stage 3: Post-Fracture Healing
Prolonged suffering from illness and pain can lead to a deficiency in both qi and blood, a decrease in immunity, and an overall weakening of the tendons and bones. Therefore, at this stage, enhancing the nourishment of qi and blood and regulating the spleen, stomach, liver, and kidneys is essential to reinforce the body’s vitality. For patients with a relatively weak constitution, herbal medicines for tonifying the spleen, stomach, qi, and blood should be consistently integrated throughout treatment to expedite recovery.Proper Nutrition Facilitates Healing
For patients with fractures, during the second stage of fracture healing, it is advisable to consume foods rich in calcium and iron, preferably from natural sources. It is not recommended to rely on artificially synthesized calcium tablets or iron supplements.
Folk Remedy: Warm Duck Egg for Reducing Swelling
In traditional folk practices, a common method for early-stage bruises and swelling involves using a boiled duck egg to massage the affected area (note: The duck egg used for this should not be eaten). This method represents a variation of TCM ancient remedies and is widely recommended.This treatment method is generally suitable for mild bruising and swelling. However, in cases of severe local redness, swelling, heat, and pain, or if there is evident infection with fever, or if the bruising involves heat and toxins that may lead to conditions like osteomyelitis or osteonecrosis, additional treatments for clearing heat and reducing swelling may be necessary. In such cases, this folk remedy may not be suitable.
Some herbs mentioned in this article may be unfamiliar, but they are generally available in health-food and Asian grocery stores. It is important to note that treatment methods may vary depending on the individual. Please consult a health care professional for a specific treatment plan.
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