TCM Pattern Differentiation Library
This library contains 326 condition-pattern combinations covering 81 diseases with detailed TCM differentiation, acupuncture prescriptions, and herbal formulas.
Each pattern page includes:
- Key symptoms and differentiation points
- Acupuncture point prescription with locations and functions
- Herbal formula with modifications
- Western mechanism reference
- Clinical recommendations
Browse by Disease Category
Use the search or browse the complete list below to find your specific pattern.
Vitiligo - Wind-Dampness Trapping the Skin Pattern
Vitiligo · Wind-Dampness Trapping the Skin Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Skin
Pattern Overview
Wind-Dampness Trapping the Skin is a pattern in vitiligo, characterized by immune-inflammatory response, depigmentation with blurred borders, itching, and spread of lesions. The core pathogenesis is Wind-Dampness pathogens trapping the skin, causing immune-inflammatory responses that damage melanocytes.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
Wrist Pain - Damp-Heat Bi Pattern
Wrist Pain · Damp-Heat Bi Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 6 min
Body Area: Wrist
Pattern Overview
Damp-Heat Bi is an acute inflammatory pattern in wrist pain, characterized by acute tenosynovitis, swelling, redness, and burning pain. The core pathogenesis is accumulation of Damp-Heat in the wrist, causing acute inflammation, edema, and severe pain.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
Wrist Pain - Liver-Kidney Deficiency Pattern
Wrist Pain · Liver-Kidney Deficiency Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 6 min
Body Area: Wrist
Pattern Overview
Liver-Kidney Deficiency is a chronic degenerative pattern in wrist pain, characterized by degenerative changes, chronic ache, weakness, and aggravation with overwork. The core pathogenesis is insufficient nourishment of the wrist by Liver Blood and Kidney Essence, leading to progressive joint degeneration and pain.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
Wrist Pain - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern
Wrist Pain · Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 6 min
Body Area: Wrist
Pattern Overview
Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis is a common pattern in wrist pain, characterized by carpal injury, sharp fixed pain, and aggravation at night. The core pathogenesis is stagnation of Qi and Blood in the wrist collaterals following injury or overuse, leading to pain, swelling, and impaired healing.
Wrist Pain - Qi-Blood Deficiency Pattern
Wrist Pain · Qi-Blood Deficiency Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 6 min
Body Area: Wrist
Pattern Overview
Qi-Blood Deficiency is a chronic pattern in wrist pain, characterized by chronic weakness, dull pain, fatigue, and poor recovery. The core pathogenesis is insufficient Qi and Blood to nourish the wrist, leading to chronic pain, weakness, and impaired recovery.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
Wrist Pain - Wind-Cold-Damp Bi Pattern
Wrist Pain · Wind-Cold-Damp Bi Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 6 min
Body Area: Wrist
Pattern Overview
Wind-Cold-Damp Bi is a common pattern in wrist pain, characterized by wrist inflammation, cold pain, stiffness, and aggravation in cold weather. The core pathogenesis is invasion of Wind-Cold-Damp pathogens into the wrist meridians, causing obstruction of Qi and Blood flow, synovitis, and joint stiffness.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
Achilles Tendinitis: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Achilles Tendinitis: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Ankle
Overview
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body—but it’s also one of the most frequently injured. Achilles tendinitis is characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness in the heel area, typically from overuse.
The good news: Most Achilles tendinitis responds well to conservative care and TCM therapies.
Acne: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Acne: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Skin
Overview
Acne vulgaris is one of the eight most disabling dermatological diseases globally, affecting up to 85% of young people and a growing proportion of adults. It manifests as comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), inflammatory papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts—primarily on the face, chest, and upper back. Beyond its physical toll, acne causes significant emotional distress, social anxiety, and in severe cases, depression.
Allergic Rhinitis: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Allergic Rhinitis: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Head & Neck / Respiratory
Overview
Allergic rhinitis—commonly called hay fever—affects 10–40% of the global population. It occurs when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, triggering nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. While antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids provide relief, they don’t address the underlying immune dysregulation—and many people seek alternatives for long-term management.
Alopecia Areata: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Alopecia Areata: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Skin (Scalp)
Overview
Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition characterized by sudden, non-scarring hair loss in well-defined patches. It affects approximately 2% of the population at some point in their lifetime and can progress to alopecia totalis (complete scalp hair loss) or alopecia universalis (total body hair loss). The condition triggers significant emotional distress, anxiety, and reduced quality of life, particularly given hair’s role in personal identity.
Ankle Pain: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Ankle Pain: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Ankle
Overview
Ankle pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages. It can result from injury (sprains, fractures), overuse (tendinitis), or degenerative conditions (arthritis). The ankle is a complex joint that bears the full weight of the body, making it vulnerable to injury.
Ankle Sprain Recovery: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Ankle Sprain Recovery: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Ankle
Overview
Ankle sprains are the most common sports injury, accounting for about 25% of all sports-related injuries. They occur when the ankle rolls, twists, or turns in an awkward way, stretching or tearing the ligaments that hold the ankle bones together.
The good news: Most ankle sprains heal well with conservative care. TCM offers effective approaches to reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote tissue healing, speeding the return to normal activity.
Anxiety Disorders: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Anxiety Disorders: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Whole Body / Nervous System
Overview
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, affecting approximately 30% of adults at some point in their lifetime. They encompass generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Core symptoms include persistent excessive worry, physical tension, restlessness, palpitations, and sleep disturbance — often accompanied by avoidance behaviors that narrow a person’s life.
Asthma: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Asthma: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Chest & Respiratory
Overview
Asthma affects approximately 262 million people worldwide, causing recurrent episodes of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. It develops when the airways become hyper-responsive—triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air, or stress—the bronchial tubes constrict, inflame, and flood with mucus, making breathing difficult.
Bell's Palsy (Facial Paralysis): TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Bell’s Palsy (Facial Paralysis): TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Head & Face
Overview
Bell’s palsy is an acute, idiopathic peripheral facial nerve paralysis affecting the seventh cranial nerve (CN VII). It presents as sudden unilateral facial weakness or complete paralysis that peaks within 48–72 hours. The annual incidence is 20–30 per 100,000, affecting men and women equally across all age groups. Common triggers include viral reactivation (particularly herpes simplex virus type 1), upper respiratory infections, pregnancy, and immune suppression.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Pelvis / Lower Abdomen
Overview
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects more than 50% of men aged 50 and older, making it the most common urological condition in aging males. It causes lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) including urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, weak stream, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), and incomplete bladder emptying—collectively disrupting sleep, daily activities, and quality of life.
Bloating / Abdominal Distension: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Bloating / Abdominal Distension: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Abdomen / Digestive System
Overview
Functional bloating and abdominal distension are among the most common gastrointestinal complaints, with studies suggesting 15–30% of adults experience regular episodes. The sensation of abdominal fullness, visible swelling, and excessive gas can significantly affect comfort, body image, and social confidence. While bloating often accompanies other functional GI disorders like IBS and functional dyspepsia, it can also present as an isolated concern—particularly after meals or during periods of stress.
Breast Hyperplasia: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Breast Hyperplasia: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 8 min
Body Area: Chest / Breast
Overview
Breast hyperplasia (hyperplastic disease of the breast, HMG) is the most common benign breast condition, accounting for over 70% of all breast disease cases. It predominantly affects women aged 25-45 and is characterized by breast pain (mastalgia), palpable lumps, and cyclical swelling that worsens before menstruation. While generally benign, it significantly impacts quality of life and causes considerable anxiety about potential malignancy.
Bunion Pain: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Bunion Pain: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Foot
Overview
Bunions (hallux valgus) are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They occur when the big toe pushes against the next toe, forcing the joint of the big toe to stick out. Bunions affect approximately 30% of adults, more common in women (due to narrow, high-heeled shoes).
Calf Pain & Cramps: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Calf Pain & Cramps: TCM Acupuncture Points & Herbal Relief Guide
Updated: June 22, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Leg
Overview
Calf pain and cramps are incredibly common. They can occur in the middle of the night, during exercise, or even just while sitting at your desk. Cramps are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can be very painful.
The good news: Most calf pain and cramps are harmless and easily managed with TCM therapies and lifestyle changes.